Alappuzha: An expelled leader of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) was arrested and subsequently released on bail in Kayamkulam on Friday, following allegations of making derogatory remarks against CPM MLA U Prathibha.

The police initiated a case against the accused, identified as Irshad, on Thursday night based on a formal complaint lodged by the MLA. While the Election Commission had also recommended legal action for a breach of the Model Code of Conduct, the police proceeded with the registration of the case under the complainant’s statement. As the charges were bailable, Irshad was released shortly after his arrest was recorded.

The controversy originates from a campaign event where Irshad, then a local IUML leader and UDF convener in Kayamkulam, allegedly targeted Prathibha’s personal attributes rather than her political record. He claimed she was "selling" her eloquence and beauty to secure a third consecutive win, while further accusing the legislator of "failing" to work for the people.

In the wake of the backlash, the IUML took swift disciplinary action, removing Irshad from the party and stripping him of his election responsibilities within the constituency. While the CPM used the incident to attack the UDF, senior UDF figures, including Congress candidate M Liju, were quick to distance themselves from the remarks and condemn the statements.

PTI