Thiruvananthapuram: Tension gripped the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation office on Thursday after a clash broke out between LDF and BJP councillors during a protest over the recent oath-taking controversy.
The protest began when LDF councillors staged a sit-in outside Mayor V.V. Rajesh’s office. They demanded the resignation of the Mayor and Deputy Mayor following the Kerala High Court’s direction asking 20 BJP councillors to retake their oath.
Scuffle Breaks Out at Mayor’s Office
Mayor V.V. Rajesh and BJP councillors arrived at the Corporation office during the protest. As they tried to enter the Mayor’s chamber, LDF councillors attempted to stop them.Soon, both groups clashed, leading to a scuffle inside the Corporation premises. Police officers stepped in to control the situation.
Several Councillors Injured
The clash left members from both sides injured. CPI(M) councillor Sindhu Sasi suffered injuries and was taken to a hospital. Four LDF councillors, including former Deputy Mayor Rakhee Ravikumar, also received medical treatment. The BJP said nine of its councillors, including Mayor V.V. Rajesh and the Deputy Mayor, were admitted to the Medical College Hospital after the incident.
Mayor and LDF Trade Allegations
Mayor V.V. Rajesh accused the LDF of blocking him from entering his office. He said such actions would not stop the functioning of the Corporation. LDF Council Party leader S.P. Deepak accused BJP councillors of attacking those holding a peaceful protest. He also alleged that the BJP was trying to protect councillor R. Sugathan, who was recently arrested under the Kerala Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act (KAAPA).
UDF Criticises Both Sides
UDF Council Party leader K.S. Sabarinadhan criticised both the BJP and the LDF. He accused both parties of creating unrest inside the Corporation instead of focusing on public issues. He also said the previous LDF government did not act against R. Sugathan, while the present UDF government invoked KAAPA and arrested him.
Home Secretary Clears KAAPA Action
Meanwhile, the Home Secretary approved the invocation of KAAPA against R. Sugathan. The LDF continues to demand fresh elections for the posts of Mayor and Deputy Mayor. It argues that the re-swearing-in of BJP councillors has made the current leadership invalid. The political confrontation is expected to continue as the Corporation prepares for its next council meeting scheduled for June 29.