Attack on UDF worker’s house in Kannur; car and bike vandalised, UDF accuses CPM of unleashing violence in region

KANNUR: Violence broke out in Panur in Kannur following celebrations over the UDF’s victory in the local body elections. The attack took place during a victory procession held to mark the UDF taking control of Kunnothuparamba Panchayat. Stones and explosive materials were allegedly hurled at the procession, and later, a UDF worker’s house was attacked by a group armed with machetes.

The clash took place at around 5.30 pm in the Paradu area. The UDF had regained control of the Kunnothuparamba Panchayat after 25 years by winning 15 seats. The violence broke out during victory celebrations at the Paradu junction, with the attack allegedly carried out by CPM workers.

The attackers, dressed in black and with their faces covered using party flags, arrived at the scene, causing UDF workers to scatter. Those who tried to flee were chased and assaulted using machetes and large sticks. Visuals that surfaced show one person throwing an explosive and later vandalising the Muslim League office.

After the widespread violence, the attackers reportedly went to the houses of some UDF workers in search of them. At one house, the group arrived wielding large machetes, creating a tense situation. Visuals show one attacker raising a machete as if to strike. A person inside the house was assaulted, and a car and a bike parked in the courtyard were damaged with machetes.

Reports say the group continued attacks in the area even after this incident. Considering the possibility of further clashes, police were deployed in the Paradu area at the time of the violence. Congress leaders said that UDF workers had earlier warned of possible attacks in the Panur area, which has a history of political violence during elections. They alleged that the police failed to provide adequate security despite the warning.