THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Arif Mohammad Khan reacted to the burning of the Governor's effigy in the form of Pappanji by SFI workers at Payyambalam beach in Kannur. Arif Mohammad Khan said that it is not surprising that SFI burnt his effigy and asked hasn't many people been burned alive by CPM members in Kannur.

"They showed their culture by burning the effigy. It is the Chief Minister who gives permission to their protests. I don't understand why they continue this drama. The Chief Minister himself is supporting the attackers. This directs to the role of the Chief Minister.' The governor told the media in Thiruvananthapuram that he would sign the bills once they are clarified.

An effigy of the governor in the form of Pappanji was burnt on New Year's Eve at Payyambalam beach in Kannur. The police have registered a case against about 20 people including SFI state president Anushree. The town police registered a case under four sections including attempted riot and illegal assembly. Apart from Anushree, SFI district secretary Sanjeev, president Vishnu Vinod and state secretariat member Vaishnav Chandran are accused.