Trouble Mounts For CPI(M) MLA Saji Cheriyan Over Controversial Remarks Against The Constitution

An FIR was lodged against Kerala CPI(M) MLA Saji Cheriyan on Thursday, in connection with his recent controversial remarks against the Constitution, a day after he announced his resignation from his cabinet post amidst mounting criticism from various quarters, including the Opposition, over his remarks.

It was reported that Kerala Governor, Arif Mohammad Khan, too, sought information from the Kerala government about the minister's remarks.

The case was registered under Section 2 of the Prevention of Insults to the National Honour Act at Keezhvaipur police station, a senior police officer of the district confirmed.

The provision under the Act carries a maximum punishment of three years imprisonment or fine or both.

The police took the step in view of a magistrate court in Thiruvalla on Wednesday directing them to register a case against Cheriyan on the basis of a plea moved by an Ernakulam-based lawyer for allegedly insulting the Constitution.

In visuals aired by local TV channels, the Kerala Minister could be seen saying in a party event that the Constitution of the country 'condones exploitation' and is written in a way helping to 'loot from the people of the country'.

The derogatory comments made by the CPI (M) leader mounted pressure on the Pinarayi Vijayan government, which is already facing grave charges of corruption. Though the minister resigned, but the controversy refuses to die down. The party is yet to issue an official statement on the issue, clearing its stand on the entire episode

(with inputs from PTI)