R Sugathan released from jail, Suresh Gopi and party workers arrive to receive BJP councillor 

THRISSUR: Thiruvananthapuram Corporation councillor R Sugathan was released from jail after the Kerala High Court quashed the preventive detention order issued against him under the Kerala Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act (KAAPA). Union Minister Suresh Gopi arrived at Viyyur jail in Thrissur to receive Sugathan, while his family also waited outside. BJP workers welcomed him by raising slogans and draping him with a shawl.

Sugathan thanked the organisation and party workers who stood by him during his detention. He said the party had looked after his ward and family for nearly four months.
“I am proof that a person can remain in jail for this long if the police decide to keep him there,” Sugathan said. He added that he had always worked for the people and that he had been in jail for the organisation and the public.
“I am prepared to go to jail again. The development of Vattiyoorkavu Junction must happen. The MLA from the ruling party is currently available in the constituency. I have heard that he is taking steps on the matter. If that does not happen, we will have to launch another protest,” Sugathan said after his release.

The High Court quashed the District Collector’s order imposing KAAPA on Sugathan on Tuesday evening. The court cancelled the order after allowing a petition filed by Sugathan’s wife.
Sugathan’s detention had created a major challenge for the BJP, which is in power in the corporation. The court’s decision came as a relief to the party.