Kalpetta (Wayanad, Kerala): Jose Nalladam, Congress leader and ward member of Mullankolly panchayat, was found dead in a pond near his residence. Reports said he died by suicide.

Link to Pulppally case

Jose was one of the accused in a case involving the framing of Pulppally Congress ward commitee president Kanattumala Thankachan. The controversy began when liquor and explosives were allegedly planted at Thankachan’s house, which led to his 16-day imprisonment. Police later found that someone else had placed the materials, securing his release.

After his release, Thankachan accused Jose and others, including affiliates of the N D Appachan group, of being behind the false case. Police had questioned Jose as part of the ongoing investigation.

Criticism of party leadership

Recently, Thankachan criticised the Congress district committee, saying it had turned into “a group of criminals.” He further alleged that a block committee office-bearer gave money to Prasad, who was arrested, to purchase liquor used in the trap. Thankachan also said that despite his imprisonment, no one from the district committee visited him or offered support. “I do not expect any justice from the DCC,” he stated.

(Suicide is not a solution. Seek help from mental health professionals. For support, call: 1056.)