Campaign turns violent; Independent candidate stabbed in Kochi, personal enmity, say police

KOCHI: An independent candidate was stabbed in Chendamangalam. The victim is former CPM leader Fazal Rehman. The police have arrested Manoj of Vadakkekkara in connection with the incident. Police said the attack was following a personal enmity. A dispute broke out at the end of a discussion held in connection with starting an industry.

Following this, Manoj had posted on Facebook accusing Fazal of felling a teak tree. Following this, Manoj and Fazal had another argument while campaigning last evening. As the conflict escalated, Manoj stabbed Fazal thrice. Fazal is presently undergoing treatment in the hospital. The police have started an investigation into the incident. Fazal was branch secretary of the CPM and a former panchayat member. After being denied a seat this time, Fazal decided to contest as an independent candidate. With this, he was expelled from the party the other day.