Thiruvananthapuram, May 27: Massive protests erupted across Kerala as workers and supporters of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) took to the streets condemning what the party described as a “politically motivated” raid by the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) on the residence of former Kerala Chief Minister and CPI(M) Polit Bureau member Pinarayi Vijayan.
The ED conducted raids at multiple locations, including Vijayan’s rented residence in Thiruvananthapuram, triggering sharp reactions from CPI(M) cadres and Left supporters across the state. Protesters gathered in large numbers outside the residence and in district headquarters, raising slogans against the BJP-led Union government and accusing the central agencies of being used as instruments of political vendetta against opposition leaders.
As the raid continued, CPI(M) workers staged demonstrations carrying party flags and placards denouncing what they termed an “assault on democracy and federalism.” Party leaders alleged that the ED action was part of a broader strategy to intimidate Left forces and suppress dissenting political voices ahead of crucial political developments in the country.
Addressing the gathering of protesters outside his residence, Pinarayi Vijayan struck a defiant tone, asserting that such actions would neither weaken nor intimidate him or the CPI(M).
“This is only the beginning. No one should be under any illusion that such actions can weaken or frighten me or the CPI(M),” Vijayan said while addressing party workers amid loud slogans of solidarity.
Senior CPI(M) leaders also accused the BJP-led central government of repeatedly deploying investigative agencies against opposition leaders while remaining silent on allegations involving ruling party figures. The party maintained that Kerala’s people would strongly resist any attempt to destabilize democratic opposition through coercive state machinery.
The protests witnessed participation from trade union activists, youth and student organizations, and Left supporters across several districts, reflecting widespread anger within the party ranks over the ED action.
Political observers believe the confrontation could further intensify tensions between the Kerala government and the Centre, with the CPI(M) preparing to expand its agitation in the coming days.
