Kollam: The UDF has come up with a fresh allegation that hawala transaction took place in Chathannur also in connection with the election campaign. BJP candidate BB Gopakumar spent huge amount in the constituency and this was the most extravagant campaign in the history of the state, UDF Paravoor block Congress committee president Biju Parippally told Mathrubhumi.com. He added that a probe should be initiated into this.

Chathannur is one of the 'A' class constituencies of BJP. BJP had given upto Rs 5 crore for each 'A' class constituency. About Rs 90,000 was given to one booth in Chathannur. An air-conditioned office that can accommodate upto 200 people was arranged in the place. A hawala transaction similar to that of Kodakara might have taken place in Chathannur also, it is suspected.

Many vehicles with Karnataka registration had arrived BJP election committee office several times. The same candidate contested the previous election too. Then the fund was not fully spent and this resulted in clashes among the party workers.

But when the extravagant campaign was organised this time, suspicion grew regarding the source of the amount. The doubts intensified after Kodakara black money case came to light, Biju Parippally said. Meanwhile, UDF lodged complaints with Election Commissioner, chief minister and opposition leader demanding a probe into the extravagant election campaign in Chathannur.