CPM Wayanad district secretary, K. Rafeeq, has publicly threatened police officers. He warned that if the CPM’s interests are not safeguarded during the discharge of official duties, the party would not hesitate to “teach them a lesson.” This threat was boldly declared while addressing a public meeting on Friday following the party’s march in connection with the district conference.
Rafeeq was referring to the no-confidence motion that toppled the CPM-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) rule in Panamaram Panchayat. He stated that the police would face “befitting revenge” if cases are fabricated against CPM workers with the aim of targeting and eliminating the party. He claimed that his party has taken such actions in the past and even named specific officers during his speech.
Panamaram Panchayat was under LDF rule until Janata Dal member Benny Cheriyan crossed the floor to join the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF). This defection led to a no-confidence motion, resulting in the LDF losing power. The political upheaval triggered physical confrontations in the area, and CPM workers were arrested in connection with an attack on Benny Cheriyan.
Rafeeq explicitly threatened Circle Inspector of Police, Ashraff, stating that he would face retribution. He asserted that the party knows how to deal with such matters “in a befitting manner” and took full responsibility for his remarks. Rafeeq declared that Circle Inspector Ashraff “is going to learn a lesson or two,” reiterating that the CPM knows how to “teach the police a lesson.”
This is how the CPM addresses the police—whether in power or opposition. Their arrogance knows no bounds when they hold power. Currently, they lead the government, with the Home Ministry presided over by Pinarayi Vijayan, the state’s Chief Minister and the party supremo. Allegations are already rife that the police force is controlled by CPM leaders from top to bottom. Now, the CPM’s Wayanad leader has openly confirmed this in a public forum. Yet, CPM and Pinarayi Vijayan continue to claim that Kerala ranks No. 1 in law and order.
Critics argue that Rafeeq’s threat is not an isolated incident; this kind of fear-mongering against government officials and ordinary citizens is a harsh reality. In fact, communists thrive on and sustain their influence through such fear-driven tactics.
