KOTTAYAM: With controversy mounting over BJP allowing membership to murder case accused Jaismon and gang, the saffron party doubled back from their decision and expelled the gang from the party. Earlier, the membership was granted in the presence of State Secretary Adv. Prakash Babu.

Arpookara resident Jaismon aka ‘Alotti’ and his team members were given membership in the booth visit program organized by the Kumarakom Mandal Committee. Alotti was accused of murder at the age of 19, in the murder of a lodge manager. It was only recently that the court granted the gang bail in a ganja case registered by Kaduthuruthy police. Alotti also served preventive detention once under the Kaapa rule. Along with Alotti, Surya Dutt and Vishnu Dutt, both accused in various cases in Arpookara, were also given membership.

It is alleged that the membership was given as per instructions from former councillor of Kottayam municipality T N Harikumar. The membership was allotted after the gang informed party leadership about giving up criminal activities for good.

“All including Alotti were fired. An explanation was sought from the local leadership”, said Lijin Lal, BJP district president.