Campus Violence: Chief Minister Defends ‘Rescue Mission’, Opposition Criticizes as ‘License to Kill’

The alleged torture of KSU leader San Jose by SFI activists in a “dark room” at Kerala University’s Kariyavattom campus, followed by subsequent violence and police action on the night of July 2 and early hours of July 3, led to a heated debate between Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Opposition Leader VD Satheesan in the Assembly on Thursday.

Historical Context:

Kerala has a long history of student politics, with organizations like the Students’ Federation of India (SFI) and Kerala Students Union (KSU) playing significant roles. The SFI is affiliated with the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)), while the KSU is linked to the Indian National Congress. Campus violence has been a recurring issue, often reflecting broader political tensions in the state.

Assembly Debate:

The issue was brought to the Assembly through an adjournment motion by Congress MLA M Vincent, who accused the Chief Minister of providing political patronage to the SFI, enabling their violent actions. Vincent cited several instances of alleged SFI misconduct, including attacks on AISF leaders, college principals, and the death of veterinary student JS Siddharth.

Vincent also referenced the violence against Youth Congress protesters during the Nava Kerala Yatra, accusing the Chief Minister of protecting the perpetrators by labeling their actions as a “rescue mission.” This remark provoked a strong response from the Chief Minister, who defended his stance by questioning the actions of the Youth Congress workers and denying any wrongdoing by the SFI.

The Chief Minister argued that his comments were based on what he had witnessed and criticized the media for distorting facts. He also accused the Congress of destroying Mahatma Gandhi’s portrait in Rahul Gandhi’s office, a claim that was met with skepticism by the Opposition.

Opposition Leader VD Satheesan countered by accusing the Chief Minister of providing a “license to kill” to SFI activists, enabling them to commit violent acts with impunity. He criticized the Chief Minister for not addressing key questions about the handling of the injured KSU leader and the police’s inaction during the incident.

The debate escalated, with both sides trading accusations about past incidents of violence and vandalism. The session ended with UDF members protesting and the Speaker rushing through the proceedings.

Summary:

• Alleged torture of KSU leader San Jose by SFI activists at Kerala University’s Kariyavattom campus.
• Heated debate in the Assembly between Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Opposition Leader VD Satheesan.
• Congress MLA M Vincent accused the Chief Minister of providing political patronage to SFI.
• Chief Minister defended his “rescue mission” remark and criticized the media.
• Opposition Leader accused the Chief Minister of giving SFI a “license to kill.”
• Debate included references to past incidents of violence and vandalism.
• Session ended with UDF members protesting and the Speaker rushing through proceedings.