Kerala Health Minister Veena George sustained injuries on Wednesday after activists of the Kerala Students Union (KSU) staged a black flag protest at Kannur Railway Station as she was returning to Thiruvananthapuram following official engagements in the district.
According to sources, a group of protesters allegedly breached the security cordon near the station’s main entrance and rushed towards the minister’s vehicle. The situation escalated into a scuffle as she attempted to enter the platform. During the commotion, she was reportedly struck by an elbow, causing injuries to her neck and hand.
A preliminary medical examination was conducted at the station’s VIP lounge. The minister later cancelled her journey and was shifted to a nearby hospital for further observation.
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Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan strongly condemned the incident, terming it an act of “heinous politics” and accusing the Congress of instigating violence. He said the attack was not a legitimate protest but a planned act by a mob. Vijayan also criticised the opposition for allegedly targeting the minister despite Kerala’s strong performance in national health indicators.
The unrest followed an earlier confrontation in Peringome, where activists of the Muslim Students Federation (MSF) reportedly attempted to wave black flags during a public event attended by George. They were allegedly intercepted by workers of the CPI(M), leading to further clashes.
Subsequently, demonstrations involving activists of the Youth Congress, Youth League and MSF spread across parts of the district. While police managed earlier protests, the sudden action by KSU activists inside the railway station reportedly caught security personnel off guard, resulting in the minister’s injury.
Authorities said the situation has since been brought under control, and further action will be taken based on investigation.
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