Controversy Erupts Over 'Kafir' Campaign Ahead of Kerala LS Polls

The UDF has accused Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan of protecting those behind a social media campaign labeling LDF candidate K K Shailaja as a 'kafir'. Alleging it to be a hate campaign aimed at dividing people along religious lines, the UDF criticized the lack of legal action against the perpetrators.

The Congress-led opposition UDF on Friday continued its attack on the ruling CPI(M) in Kerala over the controversial 'kafir' campaign carried out hours before the LS polls in Vadakara constituency. The UDF accused Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of protecting individuals behind the campaign.

The issue revolves around a social media post urging people not to vote for LDF candidate K K Shailaja, labeling her as a 'kafir' (non-believer). Terming it a hate campaign aimed at dividing people along religious lines, Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan questioned why no legal action has been taken against those who spread the post.

Satheesan further criticized the CM for allegedly feigning ignorance about a police affidavit in the Kerala High Court that stated the post was circulated on CPI(M) online pages and WhatsApp groups. Satheesan insisted that the police know who was behind the post and accused CPI(M) leaders and activists of being involved. He pledged that the opposition would pursue every legal recourse, including approaching the Supreme Court if necessary.