Former CPM Member Stabbed at Panchayat Office
In a shocking incident that has rattled the local political landscape, Vadakkekara police arrested a 52-year-old man for allegedly stabbing a candidate for the upcoming local body polls in Chendamangalam panchayat. The attack occurred on Friday around 1pm at the Chendamangalam panchayat office, sending waves of concern through the community.
Identity of Accused and Victim Revealed
The arrested individual has been identified as Manoj, son of Valsan of Muravanthuruth, Vadakkekara. The victim is Fazal Rahman, 51, a former CPM ward member who had been ousted from the party for deciding to contest as an independent candidate in ward 10 of Chendamangalam panchayat. According to police authorities, the assault resulted from personal enmity rather than political motivations related to Rahman's candidature.
Background of the Conflict and Attack Details
Investigations reveal that Manoj had previously posted a video on social media platforms accusing Rahman of cutting and selling a fallen teak tree located near the Kottayil Kovilakam tourism information center. Rahman has firmly denied these allegations. Additionally, Rahman has claimed that Manoj harbored resentment toward him for supporting an industrialist who was formerly Manoj's business partner.
The confrontation reached its peak when both individuals met at the panchayat office on Friday. What began as a verbal altercation quickly escalated into a physical scuffle. During this struggle, Manoj allegedly used a paper cutter to stab Rahman, resulting in an injury beneath his left shoulder. It's worth noting that Rahman had previously served as the CPM branch secretary before his expulsion from the party.
Following the incident, Manoj was arrested from a private hospital where he had sought medical treatment. The prompt police action has brought some relief to the tense situation, though the community remains concerned about the violence surrounding the panchayat elections.
