Congress scuffle in Chirayinkeezhu: KPCC suspends Palayam Pradeep and Sajjad

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee initiated action in the scuffle between MLA Ramya Haridas and local Congress workers in Chirayinkeezhu. The personal assistant of Ramya Haridas, Palayam Pradeep and Congress Block General Secretary Sajjad have been suspended. The action is based on the KPCC investigation committee report. The party took action against both factions after the infighting caused embarrassment.

A meeting of people's representatives and project implementation officers was held in the block panchayat. Ramya Haridas' PA Palayam Pradeep attended the meeting and gave instructions to the contractors. Local Congress leaders questioned this through a WhatsApp group. Subsequently, an argument broke out on the social media platform. To settle matters, the MLA and PA went to the local Congress leader's house and questioned him.

Ramya said she visited the house at Congress worker and house owner Sajjad’s invitation. While she was talking, about eight people, including Sajith, arrived. Sajith is alleged to have made rude remarks targeting the MLA.

“He threatened me that he wouldn’t allow me to leave the house. He grabbed my hand and pulled me. I had to seek treatment. There is a complaint against Sajith for election financial irregularities.” Said MLA Ramya Haridas.

The MLA has four staff members, including Palayam Pradeep. Ramya said that Palayam Pradeep has been with her since she was an MP.

On Ramya's complaint, the Chirayinkeezhu police had registered a case against 14 leaders, including Sajith and Sajjad, under non-bailable sections, including the SC/ST Atrocities Prevention Act. Sajith and his wife filed a complaint, but no case was registered. The Youth Congress district leadership threatened to protest in case Sajith gets arrested. Ever since Ramya Haridas became a candidate in Chirayinkeezhu, a faction has been opposing her.