Row over Left leader's 'Bengaluru trip' remark targeting Congress MP Shafi Parambil

Thiruvananthapuram: A remark of a CPM leader that a Congress MP in Kerala used to invite 'persons who look attractive for a Bengaluru trip' has triggered a row.

Even as the CPM leader did not specifically name the Congress MP's name in the 'Bengaluru trip' remark, Vadakara MP Shafi Parambil and other Congress leaders strongly reacted to it as it was widely considered as a remark targeting Parambil.

CPM Palakkad district secretary E N Suresh Babu made the remarks in connection with the sexual misconduct allegations against Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil, who is now under suspension from Congress.

Babu said that Paramabil won't be able to demand stringent action against Mamkootathil as they were partners in 'such acts'. "If someone attractive is seen, the headmaster will invite for a Bengaluru trip," said the CPM leader targeting Parambil.

Paramabil, who was a former Palakkad MLA, played a key role in bringing Mamkootathil to replace him after Parambil got elected to the Lok Sabha. Hence the CPM leader targeted him and made the 'headmaster' remark.

Parambil commented that the CPM leader's remark doesn't deserve a reply. He also asked whether it was CPM's election strategy to personally attack opponents.

Opposition leader V D Satheesan also strongly flayed the CPM leader's remarks and asked the party leadership to take action. The police should also take action against him for such a derogatory remark.