Politics – Kerala Minister Condemns Attack on Veena George
Politics – The political atmosphere in Kerala has grown tense following an incident in Kannur where State Health Minister Veena George was injured during a student protest.
Minister Criticises Opposition Over Incident
Kerala Minister J Chinchu Rani has strongly criticised the Congress party and its youth wings after Health Minister Veena George sustained injuries amid a protest at Kannur Railway Station. Addressing reporters, Rani described the episode as deeply unfortunate and accused opposition-backed student groups of deliberately provoking unrest in the state.
According to her, such confrontations targeting cabinet ministers are unprecedented in Kerala’s political history. She maintained that the actions of certain youth organisations affiliated with the Congress reflect an increasingly confrontational approach. Rani also expressed confidence that the public would reject what she termed as aggressive political tactics.
Protest at Kannur Railway Station
The incident took place on Wednesday evening when Veena George arrived at Kannur Railway Station to board the Vande Bharat Express. Members of the Kerala Students Union (KSU) staged a demonstration near the ticket counter area. In the commotion that followed, the minister reportedly suffered injuries to her neck and hand.
Eyewitnesses indicated that the protest quickly escalated, creating chaos within the station premises. Security personnel and police intervened to manage the situation. Following the incident, the minister was rushed to Kannur District Hospital for immediate medical attention. Later, she was shifted to Kannur Medical College for further evaluation and care.
Her official travel programme was subsequently cancelled.
Police Register Attempt to Murder Case
Kannur Town Police have registered a case against five leaders of the Kerala Students Union in connection with the incident. The charges include attempt to murder, reflecting the seriousness with which authorities are treating the matter.
Investigators are reviewing available evidence, including eyewitness accounts and possible video footage from the railway station, to determine the sequence of events. Police officials have stated that further legal action will follow based on the findings of the investigation.
Medical Report Raises Questions
A medical bulletin issued by Kannur District Hospital around 8 pm, nearly four hours after the minister was admitted, confirmed that she had received treatment and remained under observation. However, the report did not clearly specify how the neck injury occurred, nor did it detail the exact nature of the trauma.
The lack of specific information in the medical report has led to discussions within political circles, though hospital authorities have not commented beyond the official statement.
Rising Political Friction in Kannur
In recent days, protests targeting the Health Minister have intensified in parts of Kannur district. Opposition groups have been voicing criticism over various issues, though the latest confrontation has significantly raised political temperatures.
Supporters of the ruling government have defended Veena George’s record, particularly highlighting Kerala’s healthcare achievements in recent years. Chinchu Rani reiterated that the state’s health sector continues to serve as a benchmark nationally and said that attempts to disrupt governance through street protests undermine democratic norms.
Meanwhile, Congress leaders have yet to issue a detailed response to the allegations made by the state minister. Political observers note that the incident could further strain relations between the ruling Left Democratic Front and the opposition United Democratic Front.
As investigations continue, authorities have appealed for calm to prevent further escalation. The coming days are likely to see heightened political debate as both sides respond to developments in the case.