KOZHIKODE: More hostility was showered on the Governor from CPM after a 70-year-old man collapsed and died in Mittayi Theruvu, which CPM alleged was the result of a traffic jam caused by the Governor's convoy. The Governor's unexpected arrival on the streets caused traffic jams in the city with all major routes getting blocked. CPM meanwhile, jumped into the issue and alleged that it was the Governor's convoy passing that denied medical help for Chevayur native Ashokan, who died.

Ashokan collapsed on the road just 5 minutes before the Governor's vehicle passed through S M Street. CPM held the Governor responsible for Ashokan’s death and said he could have been brought to the hospital if not for the strict traffic regulations.

Ashokan collapsed at 12.36 pm while standing at the LIC bus stop near Mananchira. He was admitted to the hospital around 12:55 pm. According to police, there was no delay in hospitalizing Ashokan.

Meanwhile, the governor had already asked for the removal of police protection for him, as he said the people of the state would look after him. Albeit the Governor’s claims, the security was beefed up for the Governor considering the untoward incidents of recent times, including his unending clash with SFI.