Allegations of police biasin Kasaragod protests explained
CPI(M) leaders have accused local police of applying different standards to protesters depending on their political affiliation following recent demonstrations.
Ebenezer News Explainer DeskExplainers are written from our published summary and its cited sources, then checked against them.16 Oct 2026, 10:50 amUpdated 1h ago3 min readIndiaIndia
Allegations of police bias in Kasaragod protests explained
The CPI(M) Kasaragod district secretary has accused the police of using double standards by arresting DYFI activists while failing to act against BJP protesters. This dispute highlights growing tensions over how law enforcement handles political demonstrations in the region.
Allegations of uneven police action
CPI(M) Kasaragod district secretary M. Rajagopalan addressed the media on Monday, October 5, to voice concerns regarding police conduct.
He claimed that authorities are treating political groups differently during recent protests against Minister O.J. Janeesh.
According to Mr. Rajagopalan, police have arrested and remanded several DYFI activists following protests.
He alleged that these actions included the use of non-bailable sections against the demonstrators.
Why this matters for local politics
These accusations suggest that political identity may be influencing how police handle public order. When law enforcement is perceived as biased, it can impact various groups involved in public dissent:
DYFI activists facing potential legal consequences and remand.
BJP workers who allegedly avoided arrest despite similar protest activities.
Muslim League members accused of carrying weapons during confrontations.
Medical professionals like Dr. Siddharath Ravindran who may face career repercussions.
This situation is significant because it raises questions about the impartial enforcement of the law.
If protesters believe the police are not acting neutrally, it could lead to further unrest or public distrust in local institutions.
Background of the current unrest
The protests in Kasaragod were triggered by reports that Minister O.J. Janeesh allegedly led Youth Congress workers in an attack on Students’ Federation of India activists in Thiruvananthapuram.
This incident sparked a chain of reactions across the region.
Mr. Rajagopalan noted that protests occurred in several locations, including Nadakkavu in Trikaripur, Nileshwar, and Bedakam.
He also alleged that BJP workers obstructed officials and confronted police at Puthiyakotta in Kanhangad without facing subsequent legal action.
Furthermore, the CPI(M) leader mentioned an incident at Nadakkavu where he alleged a group carrying weapons arrived to attack activists in the presence of police.
He also claimed that a doctor was removed from his hospital position after participating in a protest.
What happens next in the dispute
As these allegations are brought into the public domain, the situation may evolve through several formal and informal channels.
Observers will be looking for the following developments:
Potential responses from the police department regarding the claims of bias.
Further legal challenges or bail hearings for the remanded DYFI activists.
Possible investigations into the specific allegations of weapon possession and obstruction of duty.
If the police provide a formal explanation, it could clarify whether the different outcomes were based on the specific nature of the charges or other factors.
Meanwhile, political parties may continue to use these events to highlight their grievances against the current administration.
Key facts at a glance
Eight DYFI activists were remanded for a protest at Nadakkavu in Trikaripur.
Six DYFI activists were remanded following protests in Nileshwar.
Cases were registered against activists in Bedakam, including non-bailable sections.
M. Rajagopalan denied that the protests were meant to distract from issues involving Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
Police reportedly searched the home of Dr. Siddharath Ravindran following his protest participation.
