Didn’t give funds due to lack of income, Left leader and gang smashes hotel

THIRUVALLA: A hotel was smashed by a gang, under the leadership of CPI branch secretary in Mannamkarachira, following a dispute for not paying money for party funds. The victims have been identified as Murukan and his wife Usha, natives of Neyyatinkara. The attack was launched against Sree Murukan Hotel near Mannamkarachira junction by around 7 pm on Friday.

A three-member gang led by CPI branch secretary and auto-driver Kunjumon had attacked us, said the couple. They had asked for Rs 500 for party funds. But, we did not have that much money at the hotel. The couple sought treatment at Thiruvalla Taluk Hospital. Kunjumon and his gang also came here and threatened us, said Murukan. A complaint was lodged at the Thiruvalla police station but was withdrawn due to threats by party activists. However, as the incident stoked a controversy, the police took a case last day. The case has been registered against three locals namely Kunjumon, Lijo and another identified person.