Advertisement was published in four newspapers; Shafi Parambil is lying; Minister MB Rajesh gives explanation on controversial advertisement

PALAKKAD: Minister MB Rajesh has come out with an explanation on the controversial newspaper advertisement related to the Palakkad by-election. MB Rajesh said that the advertisement was placed in four newspapers and permission was sought for all the advertisements. "The allegation that the advertisement was given based on religion is false. Those who have allegations can file a complaint. We will give an explanation," the minister said.

"Advertisements have been placed in four newspapers. The highest number of advertisements came in Mathrubhumi. Shafi Parambil's claim that the ad was placed in only two newspapers is a lie. Advertisement was given to two smaller newspapers because of the low rates. Shafi is said to be a great secularist now. Is Shafi still ready to give up the support of SDPI?" asked MB Rajesh. MB Rajesh alleged that the SDPI-Shafi-Sandeep Warrier alliance is working in Palakkad and that they are spreading false propaganda now when they came to know that they will face setbacks for it.

The minister also challenged Shafi to file a case if they have done anything wrong. He also asked why the allegation that Surendran had given Rs 4 crore to Shafi in Kodakara is not being made a controversy.