THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The advertisement issued by LDF government justifying police action against Jishnu Prannoy’s mother Mahija and others in front of the police headquarters on April 5 and enlisting the other measures taken after the suicide, has invited widespread criticism from various quarters. The near half page advertisement which was given in most national and regional newspapers under the heading “Propaganda and truth” listed 14 points related to Jishnu’s suicide and subsequent action taken by the government. The advertisement held “outsiders” responsible for causing violent incidents in front of the police headquarters.
Reacting to the advertisement, Mahija said that it was painful that a government and a Chief Minister for whom they had so much regard, has come out with such an explanation. Left fellow travellers expressed surprise at the advertisement saying that the CPM government was resorting to corporate tactics to deal with genuine protest of people. The Opposition slammed the government advertisement and alleged that it was given owing to guilt. The advertisement justified the police stand on April 5. It said the police had permitted Mahija and six others to meet DGP and the police chief even waited for them at the headquarters. However, a group which had no permission to meet DGP wanted to enter the police headquarters.
Another group which had nothing to do with Jishnu’s family also created problem. The advertisement said that false allegations are being levelled regarding Mahija’s being dragged along the road by police. Not even a single TV channel has shown such visuals, not a single newspaper has printed photographs of Jishnu’s mother being dragged on the road. Since Mahija had accused the police of highhandedness, Thiruvanantharupam range IG had looked into the matter and he could not find any evidence to suggest police atrocities. Some sections are trying to take advantage of the pain and agony of a family which has lost a child.
The government is aware of the pain of the family and doing whatever was possible to ensure justice for them. Other points raised in the advertisement include cases registered against Nehru Group of Colleges chairman Krishnadass and five others. C.P. Udayabhanu appointed special prosecutor following a request from Jishnu’s family. Only circumstantial evidence is available in the case and police is using all scientific methods to prove the charges. Police is ready to take steps after holding discussions with the family. For the first time the state government went to Supreme Court to challenge a bail.
