Palakkad (Kerala): A Congress leader in Palakkad district has lodged a police complaint against CPM district secretary E N Suresh Babu for making a disparaging remark about MP Shafi Parambil.

The complaint was submitted on Thursday night by Alathur Block Congress general secretary Pramod to the Palakkad District Police Chief via email. Pramod accused Babu of making a “derogatory and baseless” statement that amounted to defamation of both the Congress party and women in the state.

He urged the police to register an FIR against Babu and to conduct a thorough investigation.

Responding on Friday, Babu stood firm on his remarks. “I have nothing more to add than what I said earlier. Congress leaders can give complaints and take legal action,” he said. However, he also warned, “If the matter escalates, they will have to face the consequences.”

Babu further claimed that those behind the complaints were interested in Shafi’s downfall. “I have no interest in the morality of leaders in other parties. At this time, discussions should be on the government's welfare programmes,” he added.

The controversy began on Thursday when Babu referred to Parambil as the “headmaster” of Rahul Mamkootathi MLA, who is currently under investigation for alleged sexual misconduct.

However, senior CPM leaders in the district distanced themselves from Babu’s comments. Party veteran A K Balan said, “I could not make such an allegation as I have no evidence against Parambil. Babu might have had evidence when he made the comment.”

Another senior leader, N N Krishnadas, took a dismissive stance on the Congress party's current state, saying, “We don't have time to discuss their degradation. Let them think of overcoming their issues.”

PTI