THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: CPM leader MM Mani sparked yet another controversy after he gave a sharp reply to CPI leader Annie Raja, who criticized him over his controversial remarks against K K Rema MLA. The other day, Annie Raja had said that Mani’s remarks were not suited for a communist. In reply, Mani said that Annie Raja was sitting in Delhi and she did not know what was happening in the Kerala assembly. Following this, CPI leaders, including Idukki district secretary KK Sivaraman came forward against Mani. Annie said that she does not want to respond in the manner of Mani.

“Annie Raja will say that. She is in Delhi, not here. Only we would know the problems we face in the Kerala assembly. How will Annie Raja know about it? Even if she says so, it doesn’t matter to us. I said it like that. If I get time, then I will say it beautifully. Will say it again”, said M M Mani.

Sivaraman responded that Mani's remarks against Annie Raja were extremely bad. "Annie Raja is a member of the National Executive of CPI. She is based in Delhi. Where is Brinda Karat sitting? Isn't she also in Delhi? A person's words are a reflection of his culture. It is a misinterpretation that Mani is using the local language. One should use dignified language when talking about political opponents. Mani has become a propagandist of Manusmriti through such misogynist language. CPM should be ready to correct Mani," Sivaraman said.

Annie Raja responded that not even Modi or Amit Shah were able to threaten her and that she cannot respond in the manner of Mani. Kerala Mahila Sangham and AIYF came out against Mani's remarks.

Later, Mani came before the media again with an explanation. Mani said that Annie Raja should have responded by asking the opinion of the party leadership or her own party. "She could have asked me what happened there. I did not try to insult Rema," Mani said. He also alleged that it was the Congress that called Rema a widow.