Thiruvananthapuram: Former MP K Muraleedharan has demanded a judicial inquiry into the police actions during the Thrissur Pooram festival, which he claims played a role in BJP candidate Suresh Gopi's electoral victory. Muraleedharan, who contested as a Congress nominee, alleged that the police interventions and subsequent controversies during the festival were orchestrated to ensure the BJP's success in the constituency.
"I still believe that the Chief Minister had a role in this. It was a drama to ensure the victory of BJP candidate Suresh Gopi. I demand a judicial probe into the matter and will give a letter to the CM in this regard," Muraleedharan stated on Tuesday.
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Muraleedharan also accused the Chief Minister of entrusting ADGP Ajith Kumar with the task of disrupting the Pooram festivities, leading to the BJP nominee's victory. He reiterated his claim of a tacit understanding between the BJP, the CPM, and CM Pinarayi Vijayan in Thrissur.
The controversy resurfaced following allegations made by LDF MLA P V Anvar against senior IPS officer M R Ajith Kumar. In a recent Facebook post, Anvar hinted that Ajith Kumar, the ADGP (Law and Order), was responsible for the police interventions in Pooram rituals and the ensuing controversies that marred the annual festival held in April this year.
The Thrissur Pooram, one of Kerala's most iconic temple festivals, was overshadowed by alleged police excesses, sparking widespread discontent. On April 16, the police were accused of imposing restrictions and interfering in the rituals, which led to a series of political reactions. For the first time in the festival's history, the fireworks display—typically a major highlight—was delayed and held in broad daylight the following day, leaving many festival-goers disappointed.
The opposition Congress and BJP criticised the ruling LDF government, accusing it of mishandling the situation. The political fallout from these events has persisted, with demands for accountability continuing to surface.
The Kerala government, on April 21, had directed the state police chief to investigate controversies with regard to the Thrissur Pooram and submit a report within one week. Agency.
Published: 03 Sept 2024, 03:06 pm IST
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