Ganesh Kumar finds himself in midst of controversies as protests intensify in Pathanapuram

Thiruvananthapuram: A fresh political controversy has erupted in Pathanapuram involving Kerala minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar, with protests intensifying over allegations related to the Padma Cafe project at the NSS Pathanapuram Taluk Union headquarters.

Allegations linked to Padma Cafe project

The controversy centres on allegations of financial irregularities in the construction of Padma Cafe building, a facility recently completed at the NSS Taluk Union office in Pathanapuram. The project reportedly cost around ₹4 crore.

During a Union meeting held in the presence of Ganesh Kumar, who is also the president of the NSS Pathanapuram Taluk Union, several members reportedly raised objections over the expenditure. The meeting reportedly saw heated arguments and disruptions.

Following the meeting, the Union Secretary reportedly took a transfer decision independently, after which the matter was taken up by various Karayogams for further discussion.

Tensions rise after assault allegation

The situation escalated further after an incident in which NSS Union governing body member R. Venugopal was allegedly assaulted in a temple courtyard. The incident intensified tensions among members and triggered protests.

Several Karayogam members reportedly took to the streets demanding action, while some Union members submitted their resignations to the NSS leadership.

The controversy deepened after Ganesh Kumar’s wife publicly claimed that she had seen him in an inappropriate situation at home. The allegation has drawn widespread attention and has further intensified the political debate surrounding the minister.

Opposition parties quickly seized on the issue, demanding his resignation.

Protests by political parties

Political protests have been taking place in Pathanapuram in response to the allegations.

On Monday evening, BJP workers organised a protest march towards Ganesh Kumar’s residence. Police stopped the march near the Pathanapuram Panchayat office, which led to arguments and minor scuffles between protesters and police personnel.

Several BJP leaders, including A.R. Arun, Alanchery Jayachandran, Subhash Pattazhi, G. Bahuleyan, Nitesh Pidavoor, Girish Elambal and Jithinlal, participated in the protest.

A black flag protest was also organised against the minister in Thalavoor. Police arrested three Congress workers and two BJP workers in connection with the demonstration.

Meanwhile, the United Democratic Front (UDF) has announced a protest march to Ganesh Kumar’s residence in Pathanapuram scheduled for Tuesday morning.

Political impact ahead of elections

The controversy has emerged at a sensitive time, with assembly elections approaching in Kerala. Political observers say the situation in Pathanapuram is being closely watched by the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) leadership.

The protests and allegations could potentially affect the political atmosphere in the constituency as campaigning intensifies in the run-up to the elections.