Kottayam, 07 April (H.S.):A farmer was found dead under mysterious circumstances inside a CPI election committee office in Vaikom, triggering a political controversy and demands for a detailed investigation. The deceased has been identified as Chellappan Pulikkassery, whose body was discovered hanging at the party office in Thalayazham on Tuesday.

The incident has raised serious questions after a video purportedly recorded by Chellappan surfaced on social media a day earlier. In the video, he alleged harassment and threats from local CPI leaders, claiming that attempts were made to “eliminate” him. He also expressed frustration over not receiving justice from the Home Department under Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

Chellappan, who was reportedly a differently-abled farmer, had approached Agriculture Minister P. Prasad seeking support, including access to saplings at subsidised rates. However, he claimed that no assistance was extended despite initial assurances. He further alleged that his agricultural activities, particularly his sapling business, were deliberately destroyed by local CPI functionaries.

Following the incident, both the BJP and the Congress have demanded a comprehensive and impartial probe. Leaders from the two parties questioned the circumstances surrounding the death, particularly how a differently-abled individual could have died by hanging, and raised suspicions of possible foul play. They have called for a thorough investigation to ascertain whether it was a case of suicide or murder.

Meanwhile, the CPI has rejected the allegations, accusing the BJP and Congress of politicising the tragedy for electoral gains. Party leaders maintained that the accusations against their local cadre are baseless and intended to create unnecessary controversy ahead of the elections.

Police have initiated an investigation, and further details are awaited as officials examine the circumstances leading to Chellappan’s death.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman