Puthu Yuga Yatra: V D Satheeshan flags delayed FIR against ex-CPM MLA

Kozhikode: Opposition leader V D Satheeshan said on Friday that forming publicity and manifesto committees before elections is part of a standard procedure. His comments came after Congress named former opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala as the chairman of the campaign committee and MP Benny Behanan as the chairman of the manifesto committee.Satheeshan said leaders like Shashi Tharoor, Chennithala, Behanan and Kodikunnil Suresh are actively involved in the campaign. Decisions are made collectively, emphasizing teamwork within UDF, he said. He added that Puthu Yuga Yatra conveys a message not traditionally seen in such yatras. The journey focuses on discussing Kerala's future and aims to reshape the state's political and social agendas, he said.He added that unity is essential and division should be approached with caution. Political change is anticipated in Kerala, including Malabar. Coming together is beneficial. Unnecessary discussions and controversies should be avoided to make the most of time for positive actions, he said.Satheeshan said that after reading an article by the survivor against former CPM MLA P T Kunju Muhammed, he was ashamed of living in Kerala. Despite filing a complaint with chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Nov 24, 2025, no FIR was filed until Dec 8, illustrating leniency when the accused are close to those in power.The complaint given to KPCC chief Sunny Joseph in a similar case was acted upon promptly, with an FIR filed the same day. But allegations against Left sympathizers faced a 14-day delay, showing a serious lapse by the CM. The survivor's courage is commendable. Not everyone can display such bravery. If this is the situation after filing a complaint with the CM, what would happen if a complaint was filed at a police station? Women are ridiculed while filing complaints at police stations and this is unacceptable, he said.Satheeshan said Global Ayyappa Sangamam was another scam using Lord Ayyappa's name. Boards featuring the CM's image were placed across Kerala for the event. Despite HC oversight, millions were embezzled, with money collected in the names of non-participants. Funds were recorded under a bhajan group that did not even perform, he said.Satheeshan said that during UDF rule, textbook distribution was delayed once. Claims that students used photocopies for five years under UDF's reign are exaggerated propaganda. Textbook delays also occurred during the previous LDF administration. Early distribution is commendable, but the govt failed to update the curriculum. Simply distributing textbooks is insufficient. Curriculum must be revised to meet current standards, he said..