Sat Jan 17 09:02:50 UTC 2026: Headline: UDF Condemns “Political Vendetta” Against RSP Leader Shibu Baby John in Cheating Case

The Story:
The United Democratic Front (UDF) in Kerala has strongly condemned the registration of a cheating case against Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP) leader Shibu Baby John and his family, including his 94-year-old mother. UDF convenor Adoor Prakash, MP, has labeled the case a “despicable form of political vendetta” orchestrated by the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) government. The case involves allegations of cheating a person by promising to construct and hand over an apartment in Kadakampally, Thiruvananthapuram.

Key Points:

  • A cheating case has been registered against Shibu Baby John, his family, and a builder.
  • The UDF, led by Adoor Prakash, views the case as politically motivated.
  • Adoor Prakash claims the case is an attempt to divert attention from corruption allegations against the LDF government.
  • The UDF pledges to stand united against what they perceive as “political vendetta.”
  • The alleged cheating involves a promise to construct an apartment in Kadakampally.

Critical Analysis:
The timing of this case, combined with the earlier report of a Congress MLA’s bail rejection in a rape case and a case filed over ‘fake’ Facebook posts against a former Congress MLA, suggests a potentially turbulent political climate in Kerala. All three cases involve prominent opposition figures and could be interpreted as attempts by the ruling party to weaken the opposition through legal means or smear campaigns. The UDF’s strong reaction indicates they are aware of this possibility and are mobilizing to defend their members.

Key Takeaways:

  • Kerala’s political landscape is becoming increasingly polarized with allegations of politically motivated legal actions.
  • The UDF is actively portraying the cheating case against Shibu Baby John as an attempt to damage the RSP and the broader opposition.
  • The case raises questions about the impartiality of law enforcement in the context of political rivalries.
  • Public perception of government accountability and fairness is being tested.
  • The upcoming political cycle will likely be characterized by heightened tensions and accusations of political persecution.

Impact Analysis:

This event series, particularly if the allegations of political vendetta gain traction, has the potential to significantly impact Kerala’s political dynamics. The UDF’s unity and public perception of the LDF government could be directly affected. The RSP’s standing, given Shibu Baby John‘s leadership role, is also vulnerable. In the long term, these events could lead to a deeper erosion of trust in political institutions and processes.

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