Infighting in Kerala Congress: MLA Ramya Haridas attacked over WhatsApp post

A violent altercation erupted in Chirayinkeezhu, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, on Friday night involving Congress MLA Ramya Haridas and local party members. Haridas reportedly sustained injuries and was taken to Chirayinkeezhu taluk hospital for treatment. She claimed to have been attacked and threatened by local Congress leaders.

However, party official Sajith Muttambalam and leader Sajad asserted that Haridas and her associates confronted them following a WhatsApp post. Police have registered cases against seven Congress workers, including Muttambalam and Sajad, under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. A second case will be registered based on Sajad's complaint.

The dispute allegedly began over Haridas' staff member Palayam Pradeep attending a block panchayat committee meeting. Haridas maintained that Pradeep was her personal assistant, whereas Sajad claimed it was Vimal. Haridas alleged that Congress candidates were contesting in a bank election and she had avoided their gatherings to avoid appearing partisan.

She said Sajad made disparaging remarks about her on WhatsApp and social media. Haridas claimed Sajad invited her to his house to discuss the issue, where he was joined by others. Muttambalam and Sajad alleged Haridas and her associates confronted them after she moved towards someone recording the incident. Haridas alleged that Sajith and others arrived later and threatened her, claiming they had conspired to "destroy us."

Sajad denied inviting Haridas to his house to resolve the matter and stated he and his wife had sought police protection for fear of further violence.