Hundreds of party workers and local leaders have taken to the streets across Kerala to protest against the Enforcement Directorate's action against former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The protests, which erupted on Wednesday, come in the wake of the central agency's raids at locations linked to the veteran politician.
Massive Turnout in Thiruvananthapuram and Kannur
Demonstrators gathered in large numbers in front of Vijayan's residence in Thiruvananthapuram, the state capital, as well as in Kannur, where the ED raids are currently underway. The protesters accused the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress of orchestrating a political vendetta against the Left leader.
Allegations of Political Conspiracy
The protestors chanted slogans condemning what they termed a "raid on Vijayan" and alleged a secret deal between the BJP and Congress to target the former chief minister. Many held placards reading "BJP-Congress Deal: Raid on Vijayan" and demanded an immediate halt to the investigations.
Local leaders from the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and allied organizations addressed the crowds, vowing to resist any attempts to malign Vijayan's reputation. They claimed the ED action was a misuse of central agencies to settle political scores.
ED Raids Continue
The Enforcement Directorate has been conducting searches at multiple locations connected to Pinarayi Vijayan as part of an ongoing investigation. The exact nature of the probe has not been officially disclosed, but sources suggest it relates to alleged financial irregularities during his tenure.
Security has been tightened in both Thiruvananthapuram and Kannur to prevent any untoward incidents. The protests remained largely peaceful, with police maintaining a watchful presence.
The development has further escalated political tensions in Kerala, with the ruling Left Democratic Front accusing the central government of targeting opposition leaders. The state's political landscape is expected to remain charged as the investigations progress.
