Opposition Leader Alleges Cyber Attacks on Women with Chief Minister’s Knowledge

UDF candidate Chandy Oommen is expected to secure a significant victory in the Puthuppally byelection on September 5, backed by women voters, according to Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan. He stated that this election outcome would serve as a rebuke to the Pinarayi Vijayan-led government, particularly from women. Speaking at an election rally organized by Mahila Congress in Pampady on August 30, Satheesan noted that under Vijayan’s governance, women and children in Kerala faced the highest number of attacks. He challenged the LDF and CPM leaders to discuss this issue, citing crime records.

Satheesan criticized the rising costs of essential goods, indicating that middle-level families’ monthly expenses had risen by Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000 between March 31 and July 31. He accused the government of increasing taxes and tariffs, asserting that they would further escalate after the byelection. He criticized the Chief Minister’s perceived lack of understanding of the common people’s struggles, particularly regarding prices.

Satheesan accused the CPM’s cyber operatives of targeting women, female journalists, and their families, with alleged permission from the Chief Minister. He recounted cyber attacks on Oommen Chandy, the late leader and UDF candidate, by CPM members after the byelection announcement. He highlighted the party’s attempts to tarnish Chandy’s image. He compared the Chief Minister’s daughter to Chandy’s daughter, asserting the latter’s integrity.

Satheesan claimed that the Chief Minister and his family were avoiding public engagement and evading media questions. He anticipated that the election result would serve as a warning to the allegedly corrupt government. He urged voters in Puthuppally to cast their votes on September 5 to support Chandy Oommen and provide a substantial victory margin.