Opposition stages walkout over attack on mediapersons

Thiruvananthapuram, Jun 26: The entire Opposition Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) in Kerala, today staged a walkout in the State Assembly over the attack on mediapersons and a newspaper office in Kottayam.

Moving a submission, Kerala Congress (M) leader K M Mani alleged that the government had not taken stringent action against the Students Federation of India (SFI) activists, who attacked mediapersons and the newspaper office yesterday.

''The case was registered under bailable offences whereas it had to be charged under non-bailable offences,'' he said and added that the SFI activists, who were arrested were released yesterday itself.

In reply, Home Minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan said action had been taken considering the seriousness of the incident.

''The case was registered according to the statements of the injured. After investigation, if needed, more sections would be included in the case,'' he said adding the government would not allow any attack against mediapersons.

When Leader of the Opposition Oommen Chandy rose to speak, members of the ruling parties objected as Opposition Leader should not be allowed to speak during a submission. Amidst noisy scenes, the Opposition rushed to the Well of the House.

Mr Chandy said the Home Minister had not kept to his words to the House of taking stern action against the activists, who attacked mediapersons and the newspaper office.

He also asked him to file a strong case against the persons involved in the incident.

Not satisfied with the reply, the entire Opposition staged a walkout.

Earlier, Speaker K Radhakrishnan disallowed an adjournment motion sought to be moved by the Opposition on the issue.

UNI