Election Clash in Palakkad: Political Tensions Flare as Candidate Blocked

Ramesh Pisharody, a Congress-led UDF candidate, was allegedly blocked by BJP women workers during his campaign in Palakkad, drawing condemnation from Kerala's Chief Minister. The incident highlights the escalating political tensions ahead of the April 9 elections. BJP's Sobha Surendran demanded Pisharody's apology over alleged anti-women remarks.

An election standoff has drawn attention in Kerala's Palakkad constituency. Congress-led UDF candidate, Ramesh Pisharody, faced roadblocks from BJP women workers during his campaign, prompting widespread criticism, especially from Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

The contentious incident unfurled late Wednesday, as Pisharody embarked on his election tour in Vadakkanthara. BJP councillor-led women protestors were caught on camera raising slogans against Congress, in an act Pisharody labeled 'undemocratic.'

Chief Minister Vijayan highlighted the BJP's 'intolerance' and reiterated the necessity of preserving democratic values. Meanwhile, BJP's Sobha Surendran countered, citing Pisharody's alleged anti-women remarks as the protest's catalyst. She demanded an apology and questioned the inaction on a sexual assault case involving a Congress councillor.

(With inputs from agencies.)