THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Akash Thillankeri, a former CPM activist and accused in the Shuhaib murder case, has responded to the reports which claimed that he had challenged the party. Claiming that he had not challenged the party, Akash added that he had said that he would call a press conference to deny the allegations. Taking it to Facebook, Akash said that the allegation against him is baseless. He also stated that he was an independent person expelled from the party and that the party was not responsible for what he was doing.

Earlier, the DYFI district secretary had alleged that Akash Thillankeri and his associates were conducting a gold smuggling quotation under the guise of the party. Following this, Akash had responded by stating that turning a person into a spy overnight was not acceptable as someone who loves the party. He also wrote on his Facebook page that he would have to respond publicly if the campaign continues. Based on this, the media reported that Aakash had challenged the party.