KOCHI: Firefighters should not train religious and political organizations, said Fire Force Chief B Sandhya. The new circular was issued amid controversy in giving training to Popular Front activists.

Sandhya said the applications for training should be consulted with the top officials. The circular said training should be given only to government recognized organizations, employees of business firms and civil defence personnel.

The fire chief had yesterday reported to the government that training given to Popular Front firefighters in Aluva is a serious mistake and that action should be taken against the five officers who had given permission for the training.

Action is likely to be taken against the five officers including Ernakulam Regional and district fire officers. The fire officials gave training to Popular Front at the Aluva Municipal Auditorium last Wednesday.

The incident happened at the state level inauguration of the newly formed rescue and relief organization of the Popular Front. The officials taught the Popular Front activists various methods of rescuing someone in danger and how to use the equipment.