BJP Councillor Faces Police Case for Allegedly Obstructing MLA at Public Function in Thiruvananthapuram
In a significant development in Thiruvananthapuram, the Vattiyoorkavu police have registered a formal case against BJP councillor R Sugathan. This action follows a detailed complaint filed by Vattiyoorkavu MLA V K Prasanth, who alleged that Sugathan deliberately obstructed him during a public function held in Vazhottukonam on Tuesday.
Incident at Mahila Mandir Inauguration
The confrontation occurred during the inauguration ceremony of a newly constructed Mahila Mandir, a community center for women. According to police reports, the case was registered promptly after MLA Prasanth submitted his complaint, which accused the councillor of blocking his vehicle and causing disruptions to the scheduled programme.
Police officials stated that they took action based on the MLA's allegations, which described how Sugathan's actions hindered the smooth conduct of the event. The incident has drawn attention due to its timing and the high-profile nature of the individuals involved.
Councillor's Protest and Background of Dispute
In response, councillor R Sugathan protested the police action, claiming that MLA Prasanth was not officially invited to the function. Sugathan argued that the event was conducted without proper formal notice to the corporation authorities, suggesting a breach of protocol.
This dispute is not an isolated incident but stems from deeper, ongoing tensions between MLA V K Prasanth and local BJP representatives. The root of the conflict lies in Prasanth's use of office space within the Thiruvananthapuram corporation building located in Sasthamangalam. This issue has been a point of contention for some time, fueling political rivalries in the area.
Key points from the incident include:
- The case was registered under relevant sections for obstruction and disruption of a public function.
- MLA Prasanth emphasized in his complaint that the obstruction was intentional and aimed at undermining the event.
- Councillor Sugathan maintains that his actions were justified due to the lack of official invitations and proper notifications.
- The police are investigating the matter further to gather additional evidence and statements from witnesses.
This case highlights the volatile political climate in Thiruvananthapuram, where such confrontations between ruling and opposition party members are becoming increasingly common. It raises questions about the adherence to procedural norms in public functions and the broader implications for local governance.
As the investigation progresses, both sides are expected to present their versions more comprehensively. The outcome could influence future interactions between political figures in the region, potentially setting a precedent for how similar disputes are handled.
