The ruling CPI(M) in Kerala was embroiled in controversy on Sunday after a campaign video of opposition UDF candidate Rahul Mamkootathil, contesting the Palakkad Assembly bypoll, briefly appeared on the party’s official Facebook page.
Initially, the CPI(M) district leadership denied any connection with the page, but later issued a clarification, claiming the account had been “hacked” to post the video and create controversy.
CPI(M) Pathanamthitta district secretary KP Udayabhanu said in a statement that the party was made aware of the video through media reports.
“Upon detailed examination, it was found that someone hacked the page, deliberately posted the video to create controversy, took a screenshot, and shared it with the media,” Udayabhanu stated.
The party’s social media team swiftly recovered the account and removed the video. A formal complaint has been lodged with the cyber police and Facebook authorities.
The incident sparked political allegations, with the BJP accusing the CPI(M)-led LDF of engaging in a covert deal with the UDF ahead of the upcoming bypolls.
Polling for the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat and Chelakkara Assembly constituency will take place on November 13, while the Palakkad bypoll will be held on November 20.