Kannur, 25 Feb (H.S.):Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Wednesday visited Health Minister Veena George, who is undergoing treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Kannur District Hospital after being injured during a protest by KSU and Youth Congress activists. The Chief Minister strongly condemned the attack, describing it as an act of “political hooliganism” rather than a legitimate protest.
The incident occurred at the Kannur railway station, where the Minister was reportedly attacked while walking towards the platform. According to officials, she sustained injuries during the scuffle and was later admitted to the hospital for treatment. Her condition is said to be stable.
Following the incident, the CPI(M) organised a protest march in Kannur condemning the attack. The demonstration was led by senior party leaders, including CPI(M) State Committee members P. Jayarajan, T.V. Rajesh and N. Chandran, along with district secretary K.K. Ragesh and P.K. Shyamala Teacher.
After visiting the Minister at the hospital, Mr. Vijayan lashed out at the Congress and its student and youth wings, accusing them of indulging in “heinous politics.” He said what happened at the railway station was not a protest but “the rampage of a group of attackers.”
“The Minister was attacked while walking towards the platform. This cannot be justified as a democratic protest. It was a deliberate act of violence,” the Chief Minister said.
Mr. Vijayan also pointed out that Kerala’s healthcare system is widely regarded as one of the best in India, with recognition from various official agencies. He alleged that certain incidents were being exaggerated and politically exploited, leading to an unwarranted attack on a Minister who had no direct involvement in the matters being raised.
He warned the Congress leadership against attempting to disrupt law and order by “unleashing their supporters” and said responsibility for the incident rests squarely with the Congress and the United Democratic Front (UDF).
“Making baseless allegations and polluting the political atmosphere has become their style. This attack is a reflection of that approach. It is highly condemnable and unacceptable,” he said.
Police have initiated an investigation into the incident.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
