Two CPM workers, T.C.V. Nandakumar and V.K. Nishad, have been sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment and fined Rs 2.5 lakh each for attempting to murder police personnel in Payyannur, Kannur district, a long-time stronghold of the CPM. The verdict was delivered by the Taliparamba Additional District Sessions Court on 25 November.
Notably, V.K. Nishad is contesting the forthcoming Local Self Government (LSG) elections as the CPM-led LDF candidate from Ward 46 of Payyannur Municipality.
The case stems from a bomb attack on police officers on August 1, 2012, allegedly carried out in retaliation against the arrest of senior CPM leader P. Jayarajan. Both convicts were charged under multiple sections, including the Explosive Substances Act and attempt to murder.
The combined sentence totals 20 years, meaning each convict will effectively serve 10 years in prison, comprising five years under the Explosive Substances Act, 10 years for hurling the bomb, and five years for attempted murder.
If the fine is not paid, an additional one-year imprisonment will apply. The court had confirmed on 24 November that the prosecution successfully proved all charges.
Background of the Incident
The attack was reportedly carried out as a protest following the arrest of P. Jayarajan, who was taken into custody in connection with the murder of Ariyil Shukkoor, a young Muslim Students Federation (MSF) worker. Shukkoor was killed on February 20, 2012 near Valluvan in Kannapuram, allegedly in retaliation for an attack on the vehicle carrying Jayarajan and CPM MLA T.V. Rajesh earlier that day.
Shukkoor’s murder drew widespread attention due to the brutality involved and his young age.
If Nishad wins the LSG elections, the conviction will hinder him from performing his duties as an elected representative. His candidature while facing such grave charges has already triggered political debate in the region.
Observers note that the case highlights long-standing allegations surrounding the CPM’s political culture in Kerala. Critics argue that the Communists often adopts an violent approach towards opponents and law enforcement, treating such confrontations as a badge of honour within its ranks. The incident, they say, reflects a wider ecosystem of political violence that has persisted under the current government led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
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