Pooram disruption: Ajith Kumar likely to face strong action, Home Secretary submits report to CM

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: ADGP M.R. Ajith Kumar is likely to face strong action in connection with the disruptions related to the Thrissur Pooram festival. The Home Secretary has submitted a report to the Chief Minister, upholding the DGP's findings. The Home Secretary has clearly stated that strong action is necessary against Ajith Kumar.

The DGP’s report highlighted serious lapses on Ajith Kumar’s part, which the Home Secretary has confirmed. Ajith Kumar had arrived in Thrissur as part of his official duty. The issue between the City Police Commissioner and the Devaswom officials was brought to the attention of Minister K. Rajan. The report also states that despite being present in Thrissur after problems arose, Ajith Kumar did not respond to the minister's calls.

During the Thrissur Pooram, the police created issues by charging at festival enthusiasts with lathis and barricading the festival city. Even the Devaswom staff were forcefully removed, leading to dissatisfaction. The procession and panchavadyam had to be abandoned midway. The fireworks display, which was scheduled to take place in the early morning, was delayed by four hours and held in broad daylight.

Further controversy arose when NDA candidate Suresh Gopi entered the festival city in an ambulance on the same day. Allegations have been made that the disruption of the Pooram festival contributed to Suresh Gopi’s victory in Thrissur.