Congress stance on Rahul case anti-women, says CPI M state secretary

Thiruvananthapuram: CPI M state secretary M V Govindan on Thursday alleged that the Congress party is attempting to cover up the serious allegations raised against a former Youth Congress President, who is also an MLA. He said that the information that has come out in public is only the “tip of the iceberg” and that more revelations will follow.a

Govindan pointed out that although multiple pieces of evidence have surfaced, Congress initially tried to quash the complaint. “One of the victims has said that she had confided in a senior Congress leader, whom she considered a father figure, but no action was taken. Even though V D Satheesan claims to have resolved the matter, the complainant has categorically denied this,” he said.

According to Govindan, Congress acted only after mounting public protests and opposition pressure. “Even the resignation of the accused leader was presented as a heroic act. The leadership thought the protest would fade, but when dissent intensified within the Congress itself, they were forced to remove him from the party’s primary membership,” he said.

Govindan also cited the party constitution, stating that under Article 19, Clause (6)(c), when a member is removed from primary membership, all positions secured during that period must be relinquished. He further noted that suspension procedures require clarity on duration, and leaving it undefined could legally allow reinstatement within 30 days.

Criticising Congress’s strategy, Govindan alleged that certain leaders are now trying to erase the negative campaign against the former Youth Congress leader through diversions and violent protests. “Instead of admitting their mistakes, Congress continues with attacks. On Wednesday, Youth Congress workers marched to the Chief Minister’s residence, and their violent clashes with the police are condemnable. How can a march to Cliff House absolve Rahul of his wrongdoings?” he asked.

Govindan accused Congress workers of vandalising CPI M and CITU flagpoles, destroying Deshabhimani’s boards prepared for its 25th anniversary celebrations, and attacking media outlets. He pointed out that Reporter channel offices were attacked in Perambra, Meppayur, and Thrissur.

Referring to protests in Vadakara constituency, where MP Shafi Parambil alleged that there was an attempt to manhandle him, Govindan said the Congress has deliberately deviated from the central issue. “The way the party is handling such a sensitive matter is alarming. Congress is taking a stance that promotes anti-women attitudes. People of Kerala will not forget those who try to shield misconduct against women,” he added.