The Kerala BJP, led by president and former Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar, has fiercely condemned the midnight arrest of journalist Shajan Skaria by state police, labeling it a gross violation of democratic principles. Skaria, known for his critical exposés against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the CPI-M-led government, was apprehended at his home on Monday night while dining with his elderly parents.

The arrest, prompted by a woman’s defamation complaint, saw police barge into Skaria’s residence, reportedly denying him the chance to even wear a shirt. Chandrasekhar decried the CPI-M’s intolerance, accusing the government of targeting Skaria for his relentless coverage of alleged wrongdoings, including recent claims involving Vijayan’s daughter. “This undemocratic act exposes the autocratic style of the Left government,” Chandrasekhar said, vowing that the BJP would fight such injustices across Kerala.

Skaria, a prominent figure through his YouTube and online news platform, has repeatedly clashed with authorities, alleging police actions stem from Vijayan’s office. Following his arrest, Skaria was taken for a medical checkup and presented before a local magistrate. His counsel argued the arrest violated legal norms and that custodial interrogation was unnecessary, given Skaria’s compliance with the law. The magistrate granted him bail.

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Chandrasekhar criticized INDIA bloc governments for preaching press freedom while acting oppressively. Skaria’s arrest has sparked outrage, with supporters rallying against what they see as a deliberate attempt to silence dissent in Kerala.

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