Attack on Shashi Tharoor’s convoy in Kerala, gunman brutally assaulted after altercation

Malappuram (The Uttam Hindu): A shocking incident has emerged from Kerala’s Malappuram district where the convoy of Shashi Tharoor, senior Congress leader and MP, was attacked during an election campaign. The incident took place on Friday night in the Chellithodu area of Wandoor, triggering tension in the region.

According to reports, unidentified attackers stopped Tharoor’s vehicle midway, verbally abused his security personnel, and later brutally assaulted his gunman. Following the incident, police launched immediate action.

What triggered the incident?

Initial investigation suggests that the violence began over a minor issue that escalated quickly. While Tharoor’s car was stuck in traffic, his driver reportedly honked to move ahead. This angered some locals, who then attempted to confront the driver and the MP.

It is alleged that the attackers chased Tharoor’s vehicle for some distance before intercepting it and blocking the road. When they tried to misbehave with the MP, the gunman intervened to protect him, after which the attackers turned on the gunman and assaulted him.

Main accused arrested, vehicles seized

Following the attack, the gunman filed a complaint at Wandoor police station. Acting swiftly, police arrested the main accused, identified as Umar, a resident of Kalikavu.

Two other suspects have also been detained for questioning. Police have seized two vehicles allegedly used by the attackers. A case has been registered against five individuals under serious charges, and efforts are underway to trace other absconding accused.

Road rage or political conspiracy?

Police are now investigating whether the incident was merely a case of road rage or part of a larger political conspiracy. Officials noted that the attackers chased the convoy for a considerable distance, raising suspicion of a deliberate attempt to create unrest.

Tharoor was in the area campaigning for party candidate A.P. Anil Kumar. The incident during election time has also raised concerns over security arrangements.

Further interrogation of the accused is underway to determine the exact motive behind the attack.