CPM Leader’s Presence At An Event Attended By SDPI Man Sparks Controversy
One of their members learned about the presence of Vijayaraghavan in Kozhikode and invited the CPM leader to the function: SDPI local leader Muhammed Shafi
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A video clip showing CPM politburo member A. Vijayaraghavan attending a private event alongside a local SDPI leader has sparked major controversy.
The footage shows Vijayaraghavan dining with a group while SDPI local leader Muhammed Shafi Pilassery performs a song at the function. The event took place in Kozhikode on May 3, where around 40 business partners had gathered on the eve of the Assembly election vote counting.
Shafi later confirmed Vijayaraghavan’s presence but clarified that he attended only as a guest, following an invitation from a CPM worker who was also part of the business collective.
According to Shafi, it was just a brief visit. One of their members learned about the presence of Vijayaraghavan in Kozhikode and invited the CPM leader to the function. Vijayaraghavan spent only 10 minutes there, had some food, and left.
There was no political discussion or motive behind the event.
However, his presence sparked controversy in the wake of earlier allegations that SDPI was supporting LDF candidates in certain constituencies in north Kerala.
The CPM had also accused the UDF of seeking support from the Jamat-e-Islami in the Assembly elections and even alleged that the Congress leadership courted hardline organisations to secure victory.
CPM says deliberate attempt to defame party leader
The CPM Malappuram District Secretariat stated that the ongoing social media campaign is unacceptable and part of a deliberate attempt to target leaders and damage their reputation.
The controversy arose after Vijayaraghavan attended a housewarming event for the brother of CPM Malappuram District Committee member Gafoor P Lillis.
A video showing him eating in a nearby hall while an SDPI local leader performed at a song festival during the event has been widely shared online. The CPM criticized certain channels for reporting the story without verifying the facts, accusing them of engaging in character assassination against party leaders.
A Vijayaraghavan is a political leader known for taking a firm stand against religious extremism. Both the Sangh Parivar and certain Muslim extremist groups target him for his commitment to non-violence. The party has strongly dismissed attempts at character assassination through unfounded allegations, and the CPM district secretariat has urged the media to be ready to issue corrections if needed.
