In a shocking incident that has sent ripples across Kerala, a migrant worker was brutally lynched by a mob in Walayar. State Minister M B Rajesh has directly accused activists affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) of carrying out the fatal attack, linking it to a broader campaign of racial hatred.
Minister Alleges Political Motive Behind the Crime
Local Self-Government Department Minister M B Rajesh stated that the politics of animosity practised by the Sangh Parivar led to the mob trial and killing of 31-year-old Ramnarayan Baghel, a native of Chhattisgarh. The minister alleged that Baghel, who had come to Kerala in search of employment, was falsely branded as a Bangladeshi national by the assailants.
He condemned this act as stemming from xenophobia and racial politics. "Baghel is a victim of the racial hatred being spread by Sangh Parivar across the country," Rajesh asserted. He also criticized sections of the media for reporting the event as a mere lynching without highlighting the alleged political involvement of the perpetrators.
Arrests and a Pattern of Violence
Four individuals have been arrested in connection with this horrific crime. Notably, these same accused are also facing charges for attempting to murder two workers of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) during a separate clash between RSS and CPM cadres. The minister emphasized their clear political and criminal backgrounds.
Rajesh expressed concern over attempts to obscure the role of hate politics in the incident. "No question has been raised on the involvement of Sangh Parivar workers," he said. He assured the public that there would be no laxity in the investigation and promised to ensure the accused receive the maximum punishment under the law.
A Disgrace to Kerala's Social Fabric
Echoing the gravity of the situation, Opposition Leader V D Satheesan called the mob lynching a disgrace for the state of Kerala. He expressed shame that such an act was committed by Malayalis. Satheesan stressed the need for strict punishment for the culprits and demanded adequate compensation for the victim's family.
He pointed out the chilling coincidence that the incident occurred near the location where Madhu, a tribal youth, was lynched in 2018. "The government must take strong action against mobs making such decisions. Such incidents should never be repeated," the opposition leader urged, calling for decisive governmental action to curb mob violence.
The tragic death of Ramnarayan Baghel has reignited debates about migrant safety, political violence, and the spread of hate-driven narratives in the region, putting the state administration under pressure to deliver justice and prevent future atrocities.
