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Idukki District Congress Committee (DCC) president C.P. Mathew has suspended four party officials for organizing a protest in support of V.D. Satheesan as Kerala’s next Chief Minister, a move deemed a violation of directives from the party high command. The rally took place on Thursday night at Mangattukavala, near Thodupuzha, and led to the removal of V.E. Thajudheen, Rajesh Babu, Robin Myladi, and Joy Myladi from their respective positions.
The DCC said the activists used an official WhatsApp group to mobilize the event, prompting KPCC general secretary Nisha Soman to call for strict disciplinary measures. Mathew acted swiftly, stripping the four of their posts, citing breach of party protocol and unauthorized public agitation.
Idukki MP Dean Kuriakose condemned the suspensions, calling them 'unethical' and disproportionate, noting that similar pro-Satheesan demonstrations had occurred elsewhere in Kerala without repercussions. He defended the activists' actions as expressions of grassroots sentiment and emphasized their role in the party’s recent electoral success.
The incident has widened internal divisions within the Kerala Congress, with growing calls for reconsideration of the disciplinary action. The KPCC leadership is expected to review the situation ahead of its next coordination meeting.