Violence erupted on October 21 when trucks carrying slaughter waste attempted to enter Fresh Cut poultry waste rendering unit at Ambayathode in Kozhikode despite local residents blocking access to it. (Photo for representational purpose)
Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] Kozhikode district secretary M. Mehaboob has accused Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) activists of triggering violence during a recent public protest against a slaughter waste management company at Ambayathode, near Thamarassery.
The CPI(M) leader termed the incident “highly condemnable” and claimed that the agitation which had remained peaceful was hijacked by a suspected group as part of a “conspiracy.” He sought a comprehensive probe to identify the real culprits, expressing confidence that the truth would come to light soon.
On DYFI leader’s role
Refuting allegations against a Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) leader who was booked as the prime suspect in the incident, Mr. Mehaboob said the youth organisation leader visited the spot to prevent violence. He also claimed that the video clippings from the spot would prove the truth.
According to Mr. Mehaboob, criminal elements infiltrated the agitation and triggered violence. The factory and vehicles on the premises were set on fire and several police officers sustained injuries in the violence. He said the party had already called for strict legal action against those responsible for turning a democratic protest into a violent one.
SDPI denounces charge
Meanwhile, the SDPI leadership denounced the allegations and claimed that the protest was organised with the support of various political parties from the village. An action committee constituted to lead the protest also argued that protesters belonged to all political parties as the waste treatment plant had emerged as a nuisance to all.
The violence erupted on October 21 when trucks carrying slaughter waste attempted to enter the plant despite local residents blocking access in protest against the foul odour from the plant and the pollution caused by it. The police resorted to caning and hurled tear gas shells after they were pelted with stones. Over 500 protesters were booked on charges, including arson, attempted murder and obstruction of emergency services.
Published – October 23, 2025 05:38 pm IST
