Mon Jan 20 19:25:06 UTC 2025: ## CPI(M) Councillor in Kerala Alleges Assault, Kidnapping by Party Members
**KOCHI, Kerala –** Kala Raju, a CPI(M) councillor in Koothattukulam municipality, is questioning her future with the party after alleging she was assaulted and abducted by fellow CPI(M) members on Saturday, January 18th. The incident occurred just before a vote on a no-confidence motion against the municipality’s chairperson.
Ms. Raju, currently hospitalized in Kochi, told *The Hindu* she is still in shock and undecided about her political allegiance. She claims the attack happened despite the presence of police and numerous onlookers. Her concern extends beyond herself; she expressed significant fear for her children’s safety and reluctance to return home. She criticized the police for making no arrests despite identifying those involved in the alleged abduction.
Ms. Raju refuted CPI(M) claims that she was missing for four days prior to the incident, providing evidence of her activities during that time. She stated that the United Democratic Front only intervened and facilitated her hospitalization at her request. The incident has raised serious questions about internal party dynamics within the CPI(M) and the safety of its members. The councillor’s next move remains uncertain, but the alleged assault and subsequent lack of party support are shaping her decision.
First Piper 