Overview
- Attacks on homes and vehicles tied to supporters of a CPI(M) dissident were reported after Thursday’s polling in Kannur, leading police to register cases in Payyannur.
- A case was filed over the assault on T. Purushothaman’s house in Payyannur, where stones broke windows and his car was set ablaze, and investigators are reviewing nearby CCTV footage.
- The complainant alleged CPI(M) workers were behind the Payyannur attack, though police have named no suspects and described the assailants as unidentified.
- An ADM-led all-party meeting in Payyannur ordered stricter policing, more night pickets, deployment of 15 camera-fitted patrol vehicles, new CCTV in sensitive spots, and case registration for all reported incidents.
- Additional incidents included a shed linked to candidate V. Kunjikrishnan set on fire and a CPI(M) rebel supporter’s car partially burnt in Mathamangalam, underscoring long-running political rivalry in Kannur ahead of the May 4 vote count.