Muvattupuzha municipal secretary hospitalised after alleged humiliation at staff meeting

Kochi: Muvattupuzha municipal secretary Simi H was hospitalised after allegedly being publicly humiliated during a staff meeting on Thursday, triggering a fresh controversy. She levelled serious allegations against chairperson Joice Mary Antony and some standing committee chairpersons, accusing them of targeting her during the meeting.According to Simi, who is about to get transferred from the municipality, she was informed by vice-chairperson that a staff meeting had been convened, but on reaching the venue she was told it was a farewell meeting for her. She alleged the meeting was instead used to personally attack and humiliate her. Simi also claimed that staff members who later came to console her in her chamber were asked to leave, causing her severe mental distress.She was admitted to General Hospital after developing high blood pressure. Simi alleged that the episode was part of a conspiracy against her and said she no longer felt safe at her workplace.The incident drew political reactions, with LDF and BJP councillors visiting the hospital and condemning the alleged treatment of the municipal secretary. Earlier in May, a section of employees had staged a strike in front of the municipality saying the chairperson created a difficult working environment and threatened the secretary.