Vellanad Sasi who went into hiding arrives at Secretariat; investigation team yet to arrest CPM leader

THIRUVANANHAPURAM: Vellanad Panchayat President and CPM leader Vellanad Sasi was seen at the Secretariat on Thursday while reportedly remaining in hiding in connection with a porcupine killing case. Sasi also confronted journalists from a private television channel who were recording visuals of him at the Secretariat. He reacted angrily and told the reporters to record the video and show it to anyone they wished.

Even though a case has been registered against him under non-bailable sections, the investigation team has not yet been able to arrest Vellanad Sasi. Officials said they could not arrest him because he had gone into hiding. However, there are allegations that the investigation team is deliberately avoiding his arrest. It is claimed that a few days ago, the police received information that he was staying in a lodge but did not take him into custody. His appearance at the Secretariat has intensified the controversy surrounding the case.

The Thiruvananthapuram Additional Sessions Court will consider Sasi’s anticipatory bail plea on Friday. The incident happened at a house in Vellanad where a family was living on rent. Upon spotting a porcupine near the house, the family informed a Vellanad Panchayat member, who then informed Vellanad Sasi. Instead of informing the forest department, Sasi reportedly reached the house and killed the porcupine using an iron pipe.

People present at the spot said the family requested him not to kill the animal and told him that the forest department would arrive soon. However, Sasi did not listen and killed the porcupine. He then left the place immediately after the incident.