Senior CPIM leader and former MLA P. Nandakumar has come forward with an explanation regarding his controversial statement that Malappuram district is a center for religious fundamentalist communalists. Speaking to the media, he stated that there was nothing wrong with his remarks and that his speech intended to convey the message that the district will not be allowed to become a den of communal elements. When media repeatedly asked whether his speech was wrong, he replied that the media could interpret it however they wished.
Nandakumar also accused the RSS, proponents of Hindu communalism, of paving the way for the BJP to enter Malappuram by organizing Kumbh Melas, adding that crores of rupees are being spent for this purpose. He alleged that the activities of the Jamaat-e-Islami and the Muslim League in Malappuram are fostering these trends.
Stating that he is well aware of the secular heritage of Malappuram district and that it was once a great center of religious harmony, Nandakumar added that strong attempts are underway today to destroy that heritage. He clarified that the Communist Party has always functioned by upholding secular values. He claimed that his speech did not directly target any specific religion or political party, but rather opposed attempts from both sides to turn secular Malappuram into a hub of communalism.
For more details: Navamalayalam.com