Take strong measures to ensure violence free poll in Kerala: BJP to EC

NEW DELHI: Citing cases of political violence targeting its workers in Kerala, BJP today asked the Election Commission to take strong measures to ensure violence-free poll in the state.

Union ministers Smriti Irani and Rajiv Pratap Rudy told a press conference that the attacks were outcome of a "nexus" between ruling Congress and the Left as they are worried by the "surge" in BJP's support in the state.

"Violence is being used as a political tool to suppress our voice," Irani said, alleging that Left workers were carrying out attacks while Congress was strategically supporting it.

"Situation is very critical. We do not expect a free and fair election in Kerala," Rudy said, adding that a party delegation will soon meet the Commission to press for strong measures to be taken in the state.

In recent cases of violence, former Kerala BJP chief V Muraleedharan was among 16 persons injured in an alleged attack by CPI-M workers at Kattayikonam yesterday.

On March 8, RSS worker E K Biju was hacked to death, Rudy said, adding that hundreds of party workers over the years have been killed in Kannur.

The BJP-led alliance in the state had created concern among the two bigger parties, he said, and "emerging signs of its great victory" have compelled them to target saffron workers.

A Dalit girl student tried to commit suicide after being harassed by the Left workers, Irani said.

Rudy is party's co-incharge for Kerala assembly polls and the delegation to the Commission will be headed by Union Minister J P Nadda, who is in-charge, he said.