Mon Jan 20 19:29:21 UTC 2025: ## Kerala Police Investigate Alleged Abduction of CPI(M) Councillor

**KOCHI, Kerala –** An investigation is underway into the alleged abduction of CPI(M) councillor Kala Raju in Koothattukulam, Kerala, on January 18th. The Ernakulam Rural District Police Chief, Vaibhav Saxena, has ordered two separate reports: one on police conduct during the incident, and a second overall report from the Special Branch.

The incident has sparked controversy, with the United Democratic Front (UDF) and Ms. Raju herself criticizing the police, particularly Muvattupuzha DySP P.M. Baiju, for alleged inaction and even facilitation of the abduction. They claim police violated a Kerala High Court order mandating protection for councillors during no-confidence votes. DySP Baiju has been relieved of his additional duties.

A case has been registered against five named individuals, including the CPI(M) area secretary and municipal chairperson, along with 45 other unidentified individuals, based on a complaint filed by Ms. Raju’s children. Three additional cases have been filed related to the incident. Police are awaiting Ms. Raju’s discharge from the hospital before recording her statement to a magistrate, citing legal advice to ensure consistency in her account. Arrests are expected to follow the statement. The delay in arrests has also drawn criticism from the UDF.

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