PALAKKAD: BJP state president K Surendran has alleged that CPM state leadership is protecting PP Divya, former district panchayat president of Kannur. Speaking to the media in Palakkad, Surendran said that if action is taken against Divya, it would affect MV Govindan as well.

"If the investigation continues, it will reach the party secretary. In Kerala, party rule is not happening. The government and CPI(M) are protecting Divya. Divya's courage is that the party has also received its share of corrupt money. A look-out notice should be issued against Divya," Surendran said.

"The situation is such that the Congress candidate cannot visit even the tomb of leaders. NN Krishnadas' 'dog remark' is not suitable for civilized society. Krishnadas should retract his statement and apologize. The party should correct this. No one in their right mind would call anyone a 'dog'," he added.