Priyanka seeks explanation over death of Congress functionaries

Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has sought an explanation from the District Congress Committee (DCC) over the suicides of Congress functionaries in the district. As many as four people committed suicide over the last two years allegedly due to factionalism within the party. There have been allegations that the State leadership did not intervene despite the deaths and the ongoing strife among the leaders.

Rajendran Nair, a loyal party follower from the Pulpally region, reportedly ended his life on May 29, 2023, in connection with an alleged loan scam in the Pulpally Service Cooperative Bank, which is governed by the Congress. N.M. Vijayan, former DCC treasurer, and his son Jijesh reportedly took their lives on December 25, 2024. Vijayan had incurred huge debts, allegedly trying to cover up an appointment scam in several cooperative banks in the district involving party leaders. Recently, Jose Nelledam, a member of Mullankolli panchayat, allegedly ended his life distraught over the defamation he faced in connection with allegations of conspiracy and corruption against him.

Much earlier, former DCC general secretary P.V. John was found hanging inside the party office in Mananthavady in 2015. He was reportedly depressed after his followers abandoned him in the local body polls.

(Those in distress or having suicidal tendencies could seek help and counselling by calling any of the following numbers: DISHA - 1056, 0471-2552056, State’s health helpline 104, Maithri - 0484-2540530, Thanal Suicide Prevention Centre - 0495-2760000. )