CPI(M) threatening candidates, alleges BJP

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused the CPI(M) of threatening its local body election candidates across Kannur and attempting to prevent them from contesting in the party’s strongholds. The BJP has also alleged that a section of returning officers is aiding these efforts by rejecting nominations on fabricated grounds.

BJP Kannur North district president K.K. Vinod Kumar alleged that in Malappattam’s ward 4 (Karimbil), the Assistant Returning Officer and panchayat secretary manipulated documents to reject the nomination of BJP candidate P.P. Shainu. Although a certified copy of the voters’ list had been submitted, the officer allegedly replaced it with an uncertified copy during the hearing to create grounds for rejection. Mr. Vinod demanded that the official be removed from election duty.

Mr. Vinod said the CPI(M) was attempting to block rival candidates from contesting and accused the party of carrying out activities to disrupt the election process in Kannur district. He urged the State Chief Election Commissioner to intervene immediately in the issue to ensure a fair and transparent poll.