THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state government has ordered a probe by IG (security) Balram Kumar Upadhyaya into the alleged lapses in ensuring security to Chief Minister Oommen Chandy at Pallichal on Thursday.
While the police stuck firm to the stand that no chappals were thrown at the CM, there were conflicting eyewitness accounts.
“We had scrutinised various video footage of the incident, including one by the police videographer. Only sticks and black flags were found to be flung at the CM’s open vehicle,” a senior police official said.
He also added that the presence of some chappals at the spot after the melee might have created the confusion.
Meanwhile, local people claimed that a chappal was thrown at the CM’s vehicle from behind. There were also allegations that people were allowed to reach in close proximity to the CM, despite the Left parties calling a protest.
However, police sources said some local Congress leaders insisted on the reception accorded to the chief minister in an open jeep.
Revenue minister Adoor Prakash informed the Assembly on behalf of the home minister (who was absent) that the IG (security) would examine whether there were any security lapses.
He said the protest was led by a local CPM leader, Sasi. One person was arrested and cases were registered against 50 others.
Speaker N Sakthan, who was also accompanying the CM during the reception, condemned the incident.
