“Suspects disproportionate action from forest dept in tiger tooth pendant case”
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: M V Govindan, the state secretary of the ruling CPM in Kerala , has criticised the forest department's case against the rapper Hirandas Murali, popularly known as Vedan, regarding his possession of a tiger tooth pendant.
At a press conference here, Govindan noted that Vedan has admitted to using drugs and alcohol, acknowledging that it was a mistake on his part. He even urged his followers to avoid such bad habits.
"Vedan represents a backward community in our country. We should show respect to an artist who has significantly influenced the youth of Kerala through his subaltern politics," Govindan said.
The CPM state secretary highlighted that only a small amount of ganja was found in Vedan's possession. The tiger tooth pendant was discovered only after he was taken to the police station. Despite Vedan claiming he received the pendant as a gift, the authorities moved quickly to take legal action against him, which he suggested warrants further examination.
He called for an investigation into whether such a severe case was necessary regarding the tiger tooth pendant.
Govindan expressed that Forest Minister A K Saseendarn is with Vedan. "Our position is that the action taken against Vedan was inappropriate," he said.
Forest Minister A K Saseendran remarked that forest department officials should consider public sentiment on this matter. He noted that the tiger tooth pendant case was pursued under provisions of a central law and that there would be an internal inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the case registered against Vedan.
