Kozhikode: As Congress supporters and Youth Congress leaders continue their online backlash against Divya S Iyer, Director of the Culture Department and Managing Director of Vizhinjam International Sea Port, in connection with her Instagram post praising CPM leader KK Ragesh, CPM State Secretary MV Govindan has come forward to extend his support to the young IAS officer, who is also the wife of former Congress MLA KS Sabarinathan.

While speaking to reporters in Kozhikode on Thursday, Govindan said that a major cyber attack is being carried out against Divya S. Iyer, with Congress leaders also involved in this attack. He added that the remarks made by political leaders against her are part of a patriarchal society’s resistance to a rising woman.

He also mentioned that, even if women occupy high positions, they are often subjected to the pressures of male dominance. “Divya herself has clearly stated that she will not back down from what she has said regarding this,” Govindan remarked.

On Wednesday, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan also offered his support to Divya, stating that her critics focus solely on the politics of her husband. “She had publicly expressed her feelings. The criticism against Divya is the result of a patriarchal, male chauvinist mindset. The prattling of these immature minds should be ignored,” the CM said.

The controversy erupted when Divya S. Iyer showered praise on CPM leader KK Ragesh for being appointed as CPM Kannur district secretary. She had shared a congratulatory note for Ragesh, drawing a comparison between his loyalty and skills to Karna’s armour from the Mahabharata. Divya also posted a picture of Ragesh with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, stating that she had learnt a lot from Ragesh during her time working with him.

Following the backlash online, Divya released a video clarifying her position. She stood by her praise for Ragesh, especially for his respectful behaviour and administrative skills. She emphasised that there was no political intent behind the post.