Political row erupts in Kerala over electrocution of minor

By Admin

09 Jun, 2025

A tragic incident in Kerala’s Nilambur assembly constituency has taken a deeply political turn, following the electrocution of a Class 10 student, Ananthu Suresh, who came into contact with an illegal electric fence reportedly set up to trap wild boars. The boy was fishing near a stream in Vazhikkadavu panchayat when he was electrocuted by a live wire that had been illegally connected to a government power line. His two relatives, Shanu and Yadhu, also sustained injuries.

The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) confirmed that the trap had been connected to a single-phase electricity line using both insulated and uninsulated wires a method they condemned, while distancing themselves from any responsibility. “Electric fences may only be installed with approval from the electrical inspectorate,” the board stated, pointing to repeated awareness campaigns on the dangers of illegal wiring.

An autopsy revealed electric shock injuries on the teenager’s stomach, and his funeral, held Sunday afternoon, drew a crowd of grieving family members, local activists, and political leaders.

The accused, identified as Vineesh, was arrested and booked under Section 105 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (culpable homicide not amounting to murder). Deputy Superintendent of Police Saju K Abraham confirmed the arrest and mentioned ongoing investigations, including scrutiny of the accused’s phone call records to determine if others were involved.

However, the incident quickly spiraled into a political flashpoint in Nilambur, which is gearing up for a crucial bypoll on June 19. The Congress and its allies launched widespread protests against the LDF government, specifically targeting the forest and electricity departments. Demonstrations outside Nilambur’s government taluk hospital even required police intervention.

Congress candidate Aryadan Shoukath credited the party’s protests for the swift arrest. “If we hadn’t protested, the accused wouldn’t have been taken into custody. Such acts happen with the knowledge of government agencies,” he claimed.

In response, Forest Minister AK Saseendran suggested the fence might have been installed as part of a broader “political conspiracy” aimed at swaying voters ahead of the bypoll. “There was no fence in the morning. It came up by evening. Who installed it, and for what? Was this to create a political opportunity?” he asked, implying opposition involvement.

This insinuation drew sharp criticism from the Congress, with Leader of Opposition VD Satheesan labeling the minister’s comments “despicable” and demanding his resignation. “Such an accusation is filthy. When a tragedy like this occurs, any party would protest,” he said.

Adding weight to the minister’s claims, CPI(M) state secretary MV Govindan asserted that the alleged conspiracy would be revealed once the accused’s call records were examined.

The Nilambur constituency, often plagued by wild animal intrusions, has long been a flashpoint for debates around forest management and rural safety. This heartbreaking incident has not only stirred deep public emotion but also intensified political tensions, raising troubling questions about governance, accountability, and the cost of political gain.