A significant political storm is brewing in Kerala, as P Harindran, a prominent CPI(M) leader, has accused certain parties of a “communal approach” to sexual assault cases. Speaking out in Kannur, Harindran specifically pointed fingers at the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) and the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), alleging they selectively react to such sensitive incidents based on the religion of the accused and the victim.
Harindran cited the 2020 Palathayi case, where a teacher recently received a life sentence for raping a student. He claimed the SDPI extensively highlighted this particular case because the accused was Hindu and the victim was a Muslim girl. Conversely, he alleged that the SDPI conspicuously ignored numerous other sexual assault cases involving “ustads” (religious teachers) and minor children across Kerala. “Did they protest? They did nothing,” he questioned, suggesting a biased focus.
According to the CPI(M) leader, this “narrow-minded” and “communal” mindset means these parties are not concerned about the sexual assault itself, but rather about exploiting the religious identities involved. Harindran vehemently stated that the CPI(M) does not follow such a divisive strategy. “We don’t look at whether the victim is Hindu or Muslim. We always stand with them. That is the approach of the communists,” he affirmed, emphasizing his party’s commitment to impartial justice for all. This controversy reignites a critical debate about political opportunism versus genuine concern in severe criminal matters.
Source: https://www.theweek.in/wire-updates/national/2025/11/23/mes26-kl-sexual-assault-sdpi-cpim.html
