Boat race row: DYFI stages protest against CM

The Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) on Saturday (June 27, 2026) staged a unique demonstration by rowing country boats on the Champakulam river in response to Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan’s alleged rejection of a local holiday for the historic Champakulam Moolam Boat Race.

The protesters began their march near Champakulam Church and rowed along the river to the Champakulam East bus stand. From there, DYFI leaders and activists took out a procession to the Champakulam West bus stand, where they burned the Chief Minister in effigy. The demonstration was inaugurated by DYFI Alappuzha district secretary James Samuel.

The controversy arose after Kuttanad MLA Reji Cherian, during a submission in the Assembly a few days ago, sought a local holiday for the historic Champakulam Moolam Boat Race. Responding to the request, the Chief Minister said over the microphone that the government would examine the matter and take an appropriate decision.

However, a video that subsequently surfaced on social media purportedly showed the Chief Minister, after taking his seat, telling IUML leader and Minister P.K. Kunhalikutty, who was seated beside him, that the holiday would not be granted “under any circumstances.” The purported remark has since drawn criticism from the Opposition.