The recent death of Velayudhan, 85, in a bomb blast in Kannur district has ignited further tensions in the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM) stronghold. Velayudhan’s neighbour, Seena, is now facing threats from CPM members for publicly condemning the party’s alleged involvement in bomb-making activities.
Velayudhan, who had gone to collect coconuts, found a steel container in a compound next to Seena’s home. The container exploded when he tried to open it by striking it on the floor. Seena publicly alleged that bomb-making is a common practice in the area and that bombs have been discovered in several neighboring compounds. According to Seena, CPM workers removed bombs from the area before the police arrived for a raid. She claimed that locals do not react out of fear of physical retaliation by the CPM.
Seena, who insists she is not affiliated with any political party, stated that she spoke out to promote peace in the area. “I am requesting all concerned to let me live; I do not want to die in a bomb blast. I expect the CPM leadership to control the bomb-makers,” she said. She also revealed that she has been ostracized and threatened by CPM men and women for her statements.
The issue of bomb-making in Kannur has a long and troubled history. In April 2024, just before the Lok Sabha polls, a CPM member was killed while allegedly making bombs. Initially, the party leadership denied any links to the deceased, but later, three members of the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) were arrested in connection with the incident. Party state secretary M.V. Govindan claimed that the DYFI members were on a “life-saving mission” and were mistakenly arrested by the police.
In May 2024, the CPM state secretary inaugurated a memorial for two party comrades who died while making bombs in 2015. Initially, the party denied their affiliation, but after nine years, they were honored as “revolutionary comrades,” highlighting the complex and controversial nature of bomb-making within the party.
The impact of bomb-making in Kannur is severe and widespread:
- Victims who have lost arms, legs, and eyes include children.
- Since 1998, many culprits involved in bomb-making or hiding bombs have not been traced.
- Over the last five years, 252 bombs have been recovered in Kannur district.
- There have been explosions in eight places over the past three years.
- In the last six months alone, 15 bombs have been recovered.
- Since 1998, 10 people have died during bomb-making activities.
Seena’s courage to speak out against bomb-making has brought attention to the ongoing issue but has also put her at risk. As the community grapples with the threats and violence associated with these activities, there is a growing call for the authorities and political leaders to take decisive action to end this dangerous practice. The residents of Kannur continue to hope for a safer future free from the shadow of bomb-making and political intimidation.
