Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, September 5, 2024: Tensions ran high in Kerala’s capital today as the police resorted to lathi-charge and water cannons to disperse a massive protest march organized by the Youth Congress. The demonstrators had gathered to demand the resignation of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in the wake of serious allegations raised against him by MLA PV Anvar.
The protest march, which began peacefully in the morning, saw hundreds of Youth Congress workers mobilizing in front of the Secretariat. Carrying banners and raising slogans, the protesters accused CM Vijayan of corruption and mismanagement, calling for his immediate resignation. The allegations stem from MLA PV Anvar’s claims, which have sparked controversy and debate across Kerala’s political landscape.
As the protest gained momentum, the police presence was significantly increased around the Secretariat. Tensions escalated when the protesters attempted to breach barricades set up by the authorities. In response, the police used water cannons to push back the crowd. However, when the protesters persisted and refused to disperse, the police resorted to a lathi-charge to break up the gathering.
Several protesters were reportedly injured in the police action, with some needing medical attention. The police, in turn, defended their use of force, citing the need to maintain law and order and prevent damage to public property. The Youth Congress, however, condemned the police action, calling it excessive and an attempt to stifle legitimate dissent.
The protest follows allegations raised by MLA PV Anvar, who has accused CM Vijayan of involvement in corruption scandals. While the Chief Minister’s office has categorically denied these allegations, the opposition, led by the Youth Congress, has seized the opportunity to press for his resignation. The political opposition has been vocal in demanding an investigation into the claims and is calling for greater transparency in the government’s functioning.
Speaking to reporters, Youth Congress leaders stated that today’s protest was just the beginning of a series of agitations planned across the state. They vowed to continue their efforts until CM Vijayan steps down or an impartial investigation is conducted into the allegations.
The state government has maintained that the protest was politically motivated and an attempt to disrupt the functioning of the government. Sources close to CM Vijayan’s office have suggested that the allegations are baseless and a distraction from the government’s developmental agenda. Despite this, the opposition has remained steadfast in its call for the Chief Minister’s resignation.
Today’s protest adds to the growing political tensions in Kerala, with the opposition looking to capitalize on the controversy. Whether this protest will lead to more widespread demonstrations or have a lasting impact on Kerala’s political landscape remains to be seen. For now, the confrontation between the government and the opposition seems far from over.
