Kerala journalist targeted online after questioning BJP candidate in cash-for-votes row

A Kerala-based journalist has alleged that she faced online abuse after questioning a BJP candidate over an alleged cash-for-votes controversy during the Assembly elections.

Shamna K, who works with Big TV, reportedly said she received abusive messages, including misogynistic comments and threats, across social media platforms after raising questions at a press conference.

The interaction took place during a media briefing held by Sobha Surendran ahead of polling in Palakkad, where allegations had surfaced about money being distributed to voters. Shamna is said to have asked whether a woman seen in a video handing out cash was linked to the candidate. Reports noted that Surendran did not give a clear response and ended the press conference as questions continued, Maktoob Media reported.

According to Shamna, the online harassment began soon after the exchange. She subsequently filed a complaint at the Palakkad Town South police station, submitting evidence including screenshots.

She reportedly maintained that attempts to intimidate her would not succeed, asserting that such pressure would only strengthen her resolve to continue asking questions. She also criticised what she described as “cyber hooliganism,” saying such tactics would not deter her.

Her colleague Shafeeh Elayodath alleged that the abuse appeared coordinated and suggested that she may have been targeted after her religion was identified.

Journalist Aparna Kurup also questioned whether labelling and threats could silence a reporter who had already shown the courage to ask difficult questions, adding that such methods would not succeed in Kerala.

Support for Shamna also came from others in the media, though reports indicated that abuse extended even to those expressing solidarity with her. Journalist Shida Jagath suggested that the backlash stemmed from an inability to respond to the questions raised.

Condemning the incident, Congress MLA V T Balram reportedly urged the Kerala Police to take swift legal action to ensure journalists can work without fear.

The episode comes shortly after another case in which MediaOne reporter Sajid Ajmal was provided police protection following alleged threats linked to his reporting on the same controversy involving Surendran.

The allegations relate to footage from the Kannadi area in Palakkad, which appeared to show money being distributed to voters.

Surendran has denied any involvement, stating that she had no connection with the woman seen in the video and alleging that the claims were fabricated by Congress.

However, her response reportedly came under scrutiny after some media professionals pointed to visuals of the same woman travelling in her vehicle, while photographs shared by political opponents were said to suggest a prior association.