PALAKKAD: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan criticized the media for glorifying the news of BJP leader Sandeep Varier joining the Congress. Speaking at an election campaign in Palakkad, the CM drew parallels between this development and political incidents from Kerala’s past, including the Ottapalam election held in the aftermath of the Babri Masjid demolition.

Referring to media reports about Sandeep Warrier and his meeting with Panakkad Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal, the CM remarked, "When I saw that news, it reminded me of the Ottapalam election. That election took place in a politically charged atmosphere following the demolition of the Babri Masjid by the Sangh Parivar, led by the RSS. Back then, the Congress-led central government, under the Prime Minister, provided support to that group, which led to widespread anger."

Vijayan criticized the Muslim League for failing to oppose the Congress’s stance during that period, despite being part of the coalition government. "The Babri Masjid issue caused immense resentment, even within the League ranks. There was a strong demand for the League to take a firm stance against the Congress. However, the League, prioritizing its ministerial positions, continued its alliance with the Congress," he said.

Recalling the Ottapalam election, Vijayan spoke about the legacy of Panakkad Thangal, a leader respected across communities. He suggested that the current League leadership, represented by Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal, lacks the same credibility. A protest took place because the League did not oppose the wrong stand shown by the Congress. Now when someone new came, you know what happened till yesterday? You know what position he took till yesterday? Can his anger and protest be cooled down by going to Panakkad seeing some media? the Chief Minister said.