UDF and BJP caught in controversy during polling

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Both the UDF and BJP found themselves caught in unexpected controversies on the day of the local body elections. A statement made by UDF convenor Adoor Prakash regarding the verdict in the actor assault case put the UDF in trouble. For the BJP, former DGP and Thiruvananthapuram corporation candidate R. Sreelekha’s Facebook post sharing a pre-poll survey result became a major issue.

Although Adoor Prakash later took back his statement, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and ministers P Rajeev, V Sivankutty, and Veena George strongly criticised the UDF. Congress leaders were forced to publicly reject Adoor Prakash’s remarks. The controversy erupted while voting was progressing in seven districts. Adoor Prakash had expressed happiness over Dileep being acquitted, and when asked about the government planning to file an appeal against the verdict, he said, “The government doesn't have anything else to do.” The comment quickly spread on social media, triggering widespread criticism.

Following this, KPCC president Sunny Joseph came out expressing dissatisfaction. After meeting him, Adoor Prakash clarified that his statement was not fully broadcast and that he had meant the survivor did not get justice. He added that efforts should continue to ensure justice for the survivor.

Sunny Joseph said Adoor Prakash’s remarks were his personal opinion and not that of the Congress. The party stands with the survivor and supports the government’s plan to file an appeal. Leaders like Ramesh Chennithala, K Muraleedharan, MM Hassan, Rajmohan Unnithan, and Shanimol Usman also rejected Adoor Prakash’s stance. The Chief Minister said the statement should be viewed as the UDF’s official position and that the public does not agree with such views.

Meanwhile, Minister V Sivankutty criticised R Sreelekha for sharing survey results on Facebook, calling it a violation of the election code of conduct. Sreelekha later removed the post. Earlier, she had also faced criticism for using the IPS title on her campaign boards.

Adoor Prakash’s earlier statement:

“Personally, I feel Dileep has received justice. I am someone who knew him directly. The court has given him justice. The conspiracy case against Dileep was fabricated by police officials under the leadership of a top officer — he himself has said this.”

-Adoor Prakash