Thiruvananthapuram, 22 May (H.S.):Sandeep, the gunman accused in the alleged assault on KSU activists during the controversial Nava Kerala Yatra in 2023, has been removed from former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s security team following a revision of his security arrangements after the change in government in Kerala.
The development comes after the extensive security cover that had been provided to Pinarayi Vijayan during his tenure as Chief Minister was withdrawn. Following his transition to the role of Leader of the Opposition and former Chief Minister, his security category has been downgraded from Z Plus to Y-category protection.
As part of the revised security protocol, Sandeep has now been shifted back to regular police duties. However, another officer named in the same case, security official Anilkumar, continues to remain in Pinarayi Vijayan’s security team.
Under the new arrangements, two Personal Security Officers (PSOs) have been assigned in place of gunmen. While the escort vehicle previously attached to his convoy has been withdrawn, the pilot vehicle will continue to remain part of the security setup. Police personnel will also continue to provide security at his residence. Officials said the Internal Security Assessment Committee would take a final decision on whether additional security measures are required in the future.
Meanwhile, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted by the UDF government to investigate the alleged assault case has formally begun its probe.
The incident dates back to December 15, 2023, when KSU activists staged a protest during the Nava Kerala Yatra led by then Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The protesters were allegedly assaulted by members of the Chief Minister’s security team, triggering political controversy and allegations of excessive force.
The SIT, functioning under the supervision of A.P. Shoukath Ali, who was then Alappuzha Crime Branch Superintendent of Police, has started recording statements from witnesses and complainants. On Thursday, investigators recorded the statement of a journalist who had captured visuals of the incident.
KSU district president and MLA A.D. Thomas, along with Youth Congress state secretary Ajay Jewel Kuryakose, who were allegedly attacked during the incident, have been asked to appear before the SIT on Friday for questioning.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
