Clash Erupts Between Lawyers and SFI Students in Kerala's Ernakulam; Police Investigation Underway
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Synopsis
On April 11, the Kerala Police launched an investigation into a violent clash between lawyers and CPI(M)-backed SFI students in Ernakulam. Both sides blame each other for the violence, leading to injuries and hospitalizations.
Key Takeaways
- Kerala Police are investigating a clash in Ernakulam.
- Lawyers and SFI students are involved in the confrontation.
- Several injuries were reported on both sides.
- The EBA was hosting an annual day event when the incident occurred.
- Political leaders are calling for intervention from the CPI(M).
Kochi, April 11 (NationPress) The Kerala Police initiated an investigation on Friday regarding a confrontation between attorneys and members of the CPI(M)-affiliated Students' Federation of India (SFI). The incident occurred just before midnight on Thursday in Ernakulam, resulting in injuries to several lawyers and students, along with some police officers who attempted to intervene. A number of the injured were taken to different hospitals in Kochi.
Both groups are accusing each other of instigating the chaos, while local law enforcement is approaching the situation with caution.
The Ernakulam Bar Association (EBA) was celebrating its annual day event at its headquarters. The EBA building is located next to the Ernakulam District Court complex on one side, and Maharaja's College on the other.
An EBA representative noted that during their yearly gathering, numerous students typically join for food from the counters.
“This year, after dining, they began to cause a disturbance while a music program was in progress. We raised our concerns about their disruptive conduct. In response, we were assaulted by a large group of students. Many of our members were harmed,” stated the EBA official.
Conversely, a student claimed they were the ones attacked by lawyers who appeared to be intoxicated, resulting in injuries to several students.
Opposition leader V.D. Satheesan emphasized that it is crucial for the CPI(M) to intervene and control their 'disorderly' student faction, the SFI activists.
“The SFI is currently out of control, causing disturbances everywhere. Just hours before the clash at the court, SFI students were involved in another incident in the state capital, attacking our student union members right after the announcement of the Kerala University Union election results. The ruling CPI(M) must take action to address this,” Satheesan remarked.
