Political Tensions Rise Over Alleged Abduction of Councillor in Kerala

The Congress-led UDF raised concerns in the Kerala assembly over the alleged abduction of a CPI(M) councillor, claiming police complicity. Despite demands to adjourn the House, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan opposed it, stating legal action is underway. The opposition alleged that the real culprits remain at large.

Political tensions escalated in the Kerala assembly as the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) spotlighted women's safety concerns following the alleged abduction of a CPI(M) councillor near Kochi.

Opposition MLAs, including Anoop Jacob, sought to suspend other assembly proceedings to discuss the incident that unfolded outside the Koothattukulam municipality on January 18. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan opposed the motion, asserting that investigations have begun and four arrests have been made.

The opposition accused local police of laxity and demanded action, claiming that the detained individuals were not the real culprits. The ruling CPI(M) party refuted allegations of abduction, insisting that the incident involved a political dispute rather than criminal activity.

(With inputs from agencies.)