Kannur: DCC President Martin George has alleged that threats from the CPM contributed to the suicide of Booth Level Officer (BLO) Anish George in connection with Special Intensive Revision (SIR) work, stating that workload was not the sole reason. The allegation comes following the release of a phone conversation between Anish George and Congress’s Booth Level Agent (BLA), Vysakh Ettukudukka.

Martin George claimed that CPM BLA Rafeeq had threatened Anish. He added that, instead of the designated BLA, a former CPM branch secretary and others were accompanying the BLO.

“CPM is trying to create a situation to include bogus votes in the Alapadamba panchayat. If the revised voter list is checked and bogus voters are found, it could impact the BLO,” Martin George said.

From the Conversation

In the released audio, Anish George is heard telling BLA Vysakh not to accompany him from the following day. The gist of the conversation is: “They are opposing it strongly… they are saying they will block it… so you don’t need to come.” When Vysakh asks who “they” are, Anish replies that he will explain in person.

Vysakh responds: “You should complain to the higher-ups… I am coming with you as per the Election Commission’s instructions.” Anish then says: “You can complain that I’m not taking you… otherwise, it’s a problem… isn’t it their area?”

CPM Denies Allegations

CPM Alapadamba Local Secretary T. Thampan described the allegations that CPM workers threatened Anish George as baseless. He told the media that CPM workers had even assisted with tasks such as distributing slips. Thampan added that the cause of death was the workload related to SIR, and accused the Congress and BJP of deliberately attempting to frame the CPM.

Opposition Alleges CPM Involvement

Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan stated that CPM workers played a role in Anish George’s suicide. He alleged that CPM leaders and workers had threatened the BLO for taking the Congress BLA with him during SIR-related work. Satheesan added that combined with the pressure of work, these factors contributed to the suicide. He urged the Election Commission to investigate the matter seriously.

Disclaimer: Suicide is never a solution to any problem. Seek help from mental health professionals and try to survive. If you experience such thoughts, contact the ‘DISHA’ helpline on 1056 or 0471-2552056 (toll-free).