Kannur, 19 Feb (H.S.): A wreath was found placed outside the residence of noted writer and social critic V.S. Anil Kumar in Kannur early Thursday morning, in what is being viewed as an act of intimidation. The incident occurred at his house, named “Marutham,” in Kannapuram.

According to Anil Kumar, the wreath had been thrown from the road into the courtyard of his home. He noticed it when he stepped out early in the morning to drop his son at a coaching class. The unexpected sight prompted him to immediately approach the Kannapuram police station and lodge a formal complaint.

Speaking to the media, Anil Kumar described the act as a clear threat but asserted that he was not afraid. “I see this as an attempt to intimidate. However, I have no fear. It is not clear who is behind this,” he said.

V.S. Anil Kumar is the son of the late Prof. M.N. Vijayan and is known for his outspoken views and social commentary. In recent months, he has been a vocal critic of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)]. He had also participated in a book release event last month, where he received a copy of a book written by V. Kunjikrishnan, a former CPI(M) leader who was expelled from the party. The book was handed over to Anil Kumar by Joseph C. Mathew during the function.

At that event, Anil Kumar had reportedly made critical remarks about the CPI(M), drawing attention within political circles. Given his recent criticism of the party and his association with the controversial book launch, suspicions have been raised about possible political motives behind the incident. However, no evidence has yet emerged linking any individual or group to the act.

The Kannapuram police have registered the complaint and are expected to examine CCTV footage from the vicinity as part of their investigation.

The incident has sparked concern among local residents and the literary community, who view the act as an attack on freedom of expression. Further details are awaited as the police probe continues.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman