'Anand's name was not there in panel of candidates; instructions given to find out real reason'

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: State BJP president Rajeev Chandrasekhar has responded to the death of Anand K. Thampi, a BJP worker who died by suicide after being denied a seat in the local body elections. Rajeev Chandrasekhar said Anand’s name was not included when the panel of candidates for the Thrikkanapuram ward was discussed. He added that the district president has been instructed to find out the exact reason behind Anand’s suicide.

Meanwhile, BJP leader V. V. Rajesh told the media that he did not personally know Anand. He said he came to know about the incident only after seeing news reports.

“I cannot immediately recall his face. I noticed it only after seeing the news. He must be a local worker. I do not personally know Anand. When the candidate list came from the ward, I don’t remember seeing such a name,” V. V. Rajesh said.

Anand was found hanging inside his house today. Although he was rushed to the hospital, his life could not be saved. His suicide note has come out. The note is actually a WhatsApp message he sent to his friends just before his death. In the message, Anand made serious allegations against the BJP and RSS leaders. He claimed that BJP leaders were responsible for denying him a seat and also accused RSS–BJP leaders of having links with the sand mafia.