Neyyattinkara/Nemom: As the contest heats up in Nemom, one of Kerala’s most closely watched constituencies, controversies have also begun to surface. The latest row is over allegations that Aghoris were brought in to campaign for NDA candidate and BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar.

Visuals of an Aghori blessing Rajeev Chandrasekhar at a meeting in Nedumkadu were circulated on social media. LDF candidate V Sivankutty responded alleging that bringing Aghoris for campaigning is a serious violation of rules. He pointed out that the Constitution prohibits religion from interfering in politics. While there is nothing wrong with Aghoris participating in religious rituals, he mocked whether they would now go door-to-door for campaigning. He also remarked that people are worried such appearances could scare children if they show up during school hours.

Rajeev Chandrasekhar denied inviting any ascetics for campaigning. He explained that an Aghori, who was travelling from Uttar Pradesh to Kanyakumari, happened to stop by their family gathering during the journey and approached him after asking if he was the BJP candidate. He added that when the Aghori asked for money to refuel the vehicle, he gave ₹500.