CPI(M) cashing in on Marad report: Congress

Kozhikode, Sep 30 (UNI) Accusing the CPI(M) of cashing in on the Judicial Commission report recommending a CBI probe into the Marad violence, the Congress today said it was trying to bail out its activists involved in the carnage three years ago.

Talking to reporters here, KPCC president Ramesh Chennithala said the CPI(M), heading the LDF government in the state, had demanded a CBI investigation into the case mainly to save its activists facing trial in the fast track court in the district.

There was clear evidence of that party's involvement in the first Marad violence in 2002 as well, he alleged.

He said the party would launch a vigorous campaign against attempts by certain elements to create a communal divide on the demand for CBI probe on the Marad violence that claimed nine lives on May 2, 2003.

However, the CPI(M) today said there was no mention of involvement of its cadre in the commission report by Justice Thomas P Joseph.

Addressing a press conference here, party Kozhikode district secretary T P Ramakrishnan said the Commisision had almost agreed to the opinion expressed by the party on the carnage.

He said a false propaganda campaign was being waged by certain quarters against the involvement of activists of the party, which was in the forefront to quell communal hatred.

Mr Ramakrishan held the former UDF government headed by Congress leader A K Antony responsible for the worst-ever violence as he conveniently ignored intelligence reports on the issue.

Meanwhile, the Indian Union Muslim League said the Commission had failed to substantiate the involvement of its activists in the violence and the report contained many contradictions.

Addressing a press meet here party Kerala unit treasurer P K Kunhalikutty and secretary E T Mohammed Basheer said there was clear evidence of involvement of CPI(M) cadre, but that party was attempting to hide their role.

UNI PCH AA RL KN1639