Religious insult at MediaOne journo: complaint against MLA Prathibha

Alappuzha/Kerala: A complaint has been filed against CPI(M)’s U Prathibha MLA for allegedly insulting a Media One reporter in the name of religion. The complaint was filed by Youth Congress State Secretary Naufal Chembakapally, accusing the MLA of making remarks that created a communal divide in society.

The complainant alleged that the MLA, who holds a high position, made inciting remarks which have the potential to fuel polarisation in society.

Prathibha’s remarks have been widely circulated through social media, and BJP leader and an office bearer in Kerala, Adv B Gopalakrishnan, has come forward in support of the MLA.

The complaint alleged that a communal agenda was also being aimed at by such remarks and violated the protection from discrimination under Article 15 of the Constitution. He demanded a case be filed against the MLA and legal action be taken.

Two days ago, the MLA's son was among nine arrested in Kerala's Alappuzha for possessing ganja.

"We seized ganja from a member of the group from under Thakazhi bridge. They were arrested for smoking and possessing weed. Since it was a small quantity, all were released on bail," the Excise Department told PTI.

A case was registered, and an investigation started.

The MLA denied that her son had been arrested but claimed that he had only been questioned by officials.

"Since the news broke, I have been receiving many phone calls, " she said. "When my son and friends were sitting together, the Excise officers came and asked questions, but the news came that my son was caught with ganja," she said.

"If the news is true, I will apologise. If not, the media should apologise publicly," the MLA added.