CPI, CPI(M) relation strained in Alappuzha

Alappuzha, Mar 14 (UNI) The relations between the CPI and the CPI(M) turned sour in this district with the former accusing the CPI(M) of protecting 'errant' policemen following the arrest of a CPI local committee secretary earlier this week.

The CPI district leaders, agitated over the arrest and ''manhandling'' of N V Thampi by a sub-inspector of Cherthala police station, demanded the suspension of the sub-inspector.

But the cold response of the CPI(M) had disappointed the CPI leaders, who accused it of protecting the 'errant' policemen.

However, CPI Aroor Mandalam Secretary K K Sidharthan said the party had decided to approach the state human rights commission against the arrest and alleged distribution of Mr Thampi's nude photograph to some newspapers by the police.

Stating that such an incident was the first in Kerala, the CPI leaders said they would not relent until action was taken against the police personnel involved in the incident.

The CPI leaders had threatened to picket the police station unless the Home Minister takes stern action against the sub-inspector.

Mr Thampi was arrested in connection with a tussle between police personnel and some local youth during a concert at Vayalar temple.

The relationship between the CPI and CPI(M) had been under strain for some time in this area even as the workers of both parties had clashed at Vayalar recently.

The CPI even led a march to the Collectorate to protest against the CPI(M)'s policies.

UNI XR ARC RL HT1635