Congress demands disbanding of SFI, targets Pinarayi Vijayan

On Saturday, senior Congress figure Ramesh Chennithala claimed that the SFI is primarily accountable for the extensive drug distribution and use in Kerala’s colleges and hostels, while CM Vijayan is “supporting” them.

He likewise called for the dissolution of the Students Federation of India (SFI), the student group affiliated with the ruling CPI(M). The Congress’s strong response followed police confiscating two kilograms of ganja from the men’s hostel of a Government Polytechnic College in Kalamassery, Kochi, on Thursday night and apprehending two students.

CPI(M) firmly denied the accusations, claiming there is a plot to eradicate SFI.

The event ignited a blame game among leaders of student organizations, including the Kerala Students Union (KSU) and the SFI, regarding their activists’ supposed participation in the crime. The Congress leadership claims that SFI leaders are connected to the ganja seizure incident, asserting that the left organization is significantly contributing to the proliferation of drugs within campuses.

While talking to reporters here, former Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala alleged, “SFI is mainly responsible for the widespread drug consumption in Kerala. SFI which is widely using and distributing drugs in colleges and hostels in the state, should be disbanded. CM Vijayan is giving them all encouragement.”

Praising the police for the operation conducted in the college hostel in Kalamassery, Chennithala also mentioned that if the police implement similar strict actions throughout the state, the drug cartel could be entirely eliminated from the state.

Aiming at the CM, he also accused Vijayan of failing to eradicate the drug issue from the state. Nonetheless, CPI (M) leader and PWD minister P A Mohammed Riyas firmly dismissed the accusations and claimed that some individuals have a “plan” to eradicate the SFI.

He stated that it is a moment for all to come together in the government’s battle against the drug problem. During a conversation with reporters in this location, the minister stated that no progressive organization could be labeled as a “wholesale dealer” of drugs within the state.

Without mentioning the Congress, Riyas also stated that some individuals have been calling for the dismantling of the SFI since it was established. He additionally requested the involvement of experienced leaders to address the behavior of those making accusations against the SFI in the matter.