Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan Describes Black Flag Protests Against Him As 'Suicidal Act' To Stir Political Unrest, Dismisses Opposition's Claims

In response to the Congress's accusations of violence during a black flag demonstration, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has offered a contrasting narrative.

Vijayan contends that Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) workers prevented a Congress activist from attempting suicide by throwing himself in front of the Cabinet's motorcade during the Nava Kerala Sadas event in Kannur on 20 November.

Addressing the incident during a press conference in Kannur on 21 November, Vijayan asserted that DYFI activists acted to prevent a life-threatening situation and deterred daredevilry under the guise of democratic protest.

He accused the Congress of attempting to create a fatality to overshadow the positive narrative surrounding the Kerala government's public outreach programme.

Vijayan claimed that the Congress used the threat of street violence to dissuade the public from participating in the event but noted the people's rejection of such tactics.

He also highlighted support for the programme from leaders across political lines, including Congress leader A V Gopinath, who expressed willingness to participate if invited.

Vijayan accused the Congress of insulting the electorate by describing the government-public interface as an "obscene spectacle" and reiterated the programme's success as a people's movement.