Sat Feb 01 10:38:40 IST 2025: **Police Inquiry Finds Possible Inaction in CPI(M) Councillor Abduction Case**

KOCHI, Feb 1, 2025 – An inquiry into the alleged abduction of CPI(M) councillor Kala Raju in Koothattukulam municipality has revealed potential police inaction, according to reports submitted to the Ernakulam Rural District Police Chief. The reports, submitted by the Additional Superintendent and the Special Branch DySP, will be forwarded to the Ernakulam Range DIG. If intentional inaction is confirmed, the officers involved could face disciplinary action, including the filing of an FIR.

Ms. Raju was allegedly abducted by fellow CPI(M) activists on January 18th, just before a no-confidence vote against the municipality’s chairperson. She later claimed assault and abduction after being held at the party’s area committee office. Five cases have since been registered, and four arrests made, with those arrested subsequently released on bail. A key accused has applied for anticipatory bail.

The inquiry reportedly highlights the last-minute deployment of the Muvattupuzha DySP due to the jurisdictional DySP’s absence at Sabarimala. Unfamiliar with local leaders or Ms. Raju’s situation, the Muvattupuzha DySP prioritized moving several women councillors, including Ms. Raju, to de-escalate tensions. The reports also note that Ms. Raju contacted a senior police officer while at the CPI(M) office but didn’t initially report assault or abduction. Police subsequently recorded her statement before a Magistrate to avoid further inconsistencies.

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