Post-Election Violence Intensifies in Kannur District
Fresh incidents of post-poll violence were reported across Kannur on Friday, escalating tensions in the region. The residence of a supporter of UDF-backed independent candidate V Kunhikrishnan, who was expelled from the CPM, was targeted in a violent attack in Payyannur.
Residential Attack in Payyannur
The house of T Purushothaman, located at Mahadeva Gramam in Payyannur, came under assault in the early hours of the day. According to Purushothaman, the attack commenced with stone pelting around midnight. Subsequently, the assailants breached the compound and set a car ablaze. Purushothaman, a branch committee member of the CPM, clarified that while he had not participated in Kunhikrishnan's election campaign, he had attended a book release event organized by the candidate.
Political Allegations and Further Incidents
Kunhikrishnan has accused individuals linked to CPM candidate T I Madhusoodhanan of orchestrating the attacks. In a separate occurrence, CPM activists allegedly vandalized the Congress mandalam committee office in Mayyil. Additionally, a compound wall displaying Kunhikrishnan's election graffiti was demolished early Friday, prompting property owner K P Rekha to file a police complaint.
Background of Violence
These events follow a series of violent acts that erupted shortly after voting concluded on Thursday. In Payyannur, a known CPM stronghold, supporters of Kunhikrishnan and UDF workers were attacked. Another incident involved the house of M V Bhaskaran, who served as the UDF polling agent in the Mullakkodi booth of Mayyil panchayat, within the Taliparamba constituency. This constituency saw T K Govindan, another CPM expellee, contest as a UDF-supported independent candidate.
Political Reactions and Accusations
KPCC president Sunny Joseph has condemned the violence, alleging that the CPM is resorting to aggressive tactics due to fears of electoral setbacks. He stated, "The CPM recognizes that internal party issues in Payyannur and Taliparamba could adversely affect the assembly polls. Consequently, party workers are engaging in violence throughout the district. Multiple Congress party offices have been damaged. The CPM leadership must clarify whether they endorse these violent actions." Joseph further announced that Congress will undertake the renovation of vandalized offices with public assistance.
The situation remains volatile as authorities monitor developments, with ongoing investigations into the incidents to restore order in the district.
