“From the investigation and the statements made by the accused, it has become clear that out of those arrested in the T P Chandrasekharan murder case, 10 persons are CPM office-bearers and others are party members and loyalists. In their statements, all the accused have clearly mentioned their political affinity.”
Thus informed Home Minister Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan in Kerala Assembly on July 11 during the ongoing fifth session, as reply to a question by K V Abdul Khader MLA on the political affiliation of the accused in Chandrasekharan murder case.
Still, CPM general secretary Prakash Karat maintains that the party has no role in the murder of Chandrasekharan.
On Sunday, Karat told reporters in New Delhi that the party would conduct an inquiry of its own to find if its members have a role in the incident and would take strict action if required.
Speaking to ‘Express’, K K Rema, wife of the slain RMP leader, said that the party has indulged in an exercise of self-mockery by reiterating such statements.
“The state government has categorically confirmed that those arrested in the case are CPM activists.
The party’s role in the murder has been proved beyond doubt.
The CPM’s proclamation of conducting own inquiry is only a farce,” Rema said.
Responding to the issue, Veteran BJP leader P S Sreedharan Pillai poohpoohed Karat’s statement.
“It shows that the CPM does not trust the people of the state.
Besides, the party has not asked Opposition Leader V S Achuthanandan to alter his stance in the Chandrasekharan murder issue.
Significantly, the party has been forced to discuss the murder in its central committee and also decided to conduct an inquiry, which is unprecedented.
In the past, it used to deny allegations of murder and say that the law would take its course,” he said.
Indian Union Muslim League state general secretary K P A Majeed said that the public would straight away reject Karat’s statement pleading innocence in the murder.
“Several weeks have passed since the incident and the CPM could not find if any of its party workers has a role in it.
Chandrasekharan’s family clearly points out CPM’s role in the murder and all those arrested in connection with the case are either CPM leaders or members.
In that case, what’s the point in hiding its involvement?” he asked.