Tensions flared at an NCC camp held at KMM College, Thrikkakara, around 24 December 2024, as allegations surfaced against Kerala SFI leader Bhagyalakshmi for inappropriate conduct and harassment of cadets, including female participants. The accusations arose following a heated altercation involving Bhagyalakshmi, an SFI district secretariat member, and the cadets.
According to the cadets, Bhagyalakshmi, accompanied by a group of individuals, allegedly trespassed into the Kerala NCC camp, searched their barracks, and made inappropriate remarks. One female cadet reported that Bhagyalakshmi questioned them with sexual undertones, asking, “Are you here to offer yourselves to the officers?” The remarks have caused outrage among the cadets, who expressed pride in their roles as NCC participants and condemned the alleged behavior.
Bhagyalakshmi, however, has denied the allegations, claiming that her actions were misunderstood. She stated that her visit to the camp was prompted by reports of misconduct involving higher officials. “I did not make any inappropriate remarks. As a woman, I am fully aware of the sensitivities involved and acted responsibly,” she said.
The incident reportedly occurred after several cadets were admitted to a local hospital due to suspected food poisoning. Bhagyalakshmi and her team allegedly forced their way into the camp, citing concerns over the cadets’ well-being and accusing officials of negligence.
While video footage of the altercation has been circulated, opinions remain divided. The footage shows a confrontation between Bhagyalakshmi’s group and camp officials, with cadets visibly distressed. Some cadets claimed that the intruders inspected their rooms without permission and behaved aggressively.
The controversy has escalated further as both parties continue to present conflicting narratives. Army personnel at the camp have criticized the lack of accountability and called for a formal investigation. Bhagyalakshmi maintains her innocence, asserting that her actions were in the cadets’ interest.
Additionally, CPM workers allegedly attacked Army officers during an NCC camp at KMM College in Thrikkakara. The incident occurred on the night of 23 December 2024, when a group of CPM-affiliated individuals reportedly entered the camp premises and assaulted Lieutenant Colonel Karnail Singh, the camp commandant. Despite an FIR being registered, no action has been taken by the police so far, prompting criticism from the victimized Army personnel.
The incident allegedly began after complaints of food poisoning were reported at the NCC camp. Several students experiencing discomfort were admitted to Kalamassery Medical College. Following this, a group of CPM workers reportedly stormed the camp, assaulting students and subjecting female cadets to harassment. Lieutenant Colonel Karnail Singh’s father later shared details of the attack on social media, revealing that his son, in full uniform, was assaulted while on duty.
In connection with the incident, the police registered an FIR against Bhagyalakshmi, an SFI leader and DYFI district committee member, along with others. Despite this, the accused remain at large, and the Army officers allege that the police have failed to take further steps. The officers also claim that the food poisoning incident was fabricated by some students seeking to leave the camp early for Christmas celebrations.
Despite the FIR being filed promptly on December 24, no arrests have been made, sparking further outrage among the Army personnel, who have demanded justice and immediate action from the authorities.
In yet another incident, Hari Kumar of Enikkara lodged a police complaint on 24 December 2024 after his son was taken from an NSS camp to participate in the CPM district meet’s Red Volunteer March without his consent. Kumar discovered the incident during a scheduled visit to the camp. He stated that his neighbor, Vishnu, initially called requesting the boy’s participation, which Kumar declined. Vishnu later collected the boy’s uniform under false pretenses, took him from the camp, and provided him with lunch before the march. Despite being a CPM supporter, Kumar emphasized his prior objection and plans further complaints to the child rights commission and education minister.
CPM workers attacked an NCC camp, forcibly took students from an NSS camp for a party event, and DYFI CPM workers trespassed into the NCC camp, even manhandling the instructor! Such lawlessness must not be tolerated. @HMOIndia @HQ_DG_NCC, please take strict action!… pic.twitter.com/83TH4KsawH
— Pratheesh Viswanath (@pratheesh_Hind) December 28, 2024
These recent incidents in Kerala highlight a concerning pattern of Communist organizations’ interference with youth and student programmes. Additionally, no action is taken despite complaints and FIRs being filed.
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