Thiruvananthapuram witnessed a fresh controversy in Kerala’s socio-political landscape as the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI), the youth wing of the ruling Communist Party of India (CPI), strongly criticised SNDP Yogam General Secretary Vellappally Natesan for labelling a television journalist as an “extremist.” The remarks, made during a recent interaction at Sivagiri, sparked outrage among journalists and political activists, with the DYFI calling on Natesan to withdraw the statements and uphold the principles of Sree Narayana Dharma, the spiritual and social philosophy associated with the SNDP.
The SNDP Yogam, formally known as Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam, represents the backward Ezhava community in Kerala and has historically promoted social reform and education. However, the recent incident, DYFI argues, undermines the inclusive values of the organisation and risks dividing society along communal and ideological lines.
The Controversy Unfolds
The incident took place on Wednesday when a journalist approached Natesan with questions regarding his recent remarks on Malappuram district. Television footage captured the SNDP leader’s visibly angry response, where he pushed aside the reporter’s microphone and demanded that he move away.
Two days later, during a press conference at his residence in Alappuzha, Natesan escalated the issue by publicly calling the journalist an extremist. He further alleged that the reporter acted as a spokesperson for Muslims, claiming knowledge that the journalist was affiliated with the MSF (Muslim Students Federation). Natesan defended his reaction by stating that the journalist had spoken to him in a disrespectful manner, justifying his dismissal of the inquiry.
The controversy quickly drew widespread attention from both political parties and media bodies, with many questioning the propriety of a community leader targeting a journalist in such terms.
DYFI’s Strong Response
In a Facebook post on Friday, the DYFI condemned Natesan’s remarks, saying that such statements weaken collective efforts for ideological resistance against divisive forces. The federation highlighted the critical need for unity at a time when political and religious groups, including the Sangh Parivar and Jamaat-e-Islami, are accused of attempting to polarise society along religious and caste lines.
The statement emphasised that no individual or group should make interventions that undermine the unity of the people. It called for political and ideological differences to be addressed without resorting to communal labelling, stressing that all forms of communal politics must be openly opposed.
“This is also a time for society to recognise that responses to political or ideological differences should not be communal labelling,” the DYFI state secretariat said. The post further urged Natesan to retract his statements and reminded leaders of the social responsibilities associated with their positions.
Support from Journalist Associations
The Kerala Union of Working Journalists (KUWJ) also weighed in, criticising Natesan’s remarks and highlighting the importance of safeguarding press freedom. The union noted that labeling a journalist as an extremist or targeting them based on perceived affiliations undermines the democratic principles of free speech and accountability.
By attacking the credibility of a reporter publicly, the SNDP leader not only jeopardises the safety and independence of the press but also risks sending a message that media personnel can be subjected to intimidation for carrying out their duties.
Broader Implications
The incident has sparked a debate on the responsibilities of community leaders and political figures in a diverse society like Kerala. Critics argue that leaders associated with social reform organisations, such as the SNDP Yogam, are expected to uphold values of tolerance, inclusivity, and respect for dissent. Statements such as those made by Natesan, they contend, risk eroding public trust in these institutions.
For the DYFI and other left-wing groups, the matter also ties into the larger struggle against what they describe as communal and polarising forces in the state. By publicly addressing Natesan’s comments, they aim to reaffirm a commitment to secularism, unity, and ideological cohesion, especially among younger citizens engaged in political activism.
Political and Social Reactions
Political analysts note that the SNDP Yogam has historically played a role in uplifting the Ezhava community and in educational and social reforms. However, incidents such as this can detract from the organisation’s broader mission. Leaders like Natesan, who command significant influence within the community, are expected to set an example of balanced discourse, especially when interacting with the media.
The DYFI’s public condemnation also reflects the ongoing tension between left-wing parties and caste-based organisations, particularly in contexts where communal sensitivities and political affiliations intersect. By framing the remarks as harmful to ideological unity, the youth wing is attempting to highlight the risks of communal rhetoric and maintain a narrative of inclusive, secular politics.
Looking Ahead
The controversy remains unresolved, and public attention is likely to remain focused on whether Vellappally Natesan will formally retract his statements. Journalists and media associations continue to monitor the situation closely, underscoring the importance of media accountability and safety in Kerala’s complex political environment.
For DYFI, the incident represents an opportunity to reassert its stance on unity and ideological resistance, encouraging both leaders and the public to reject communal labelling and support a political culture based on debate, respect, and inclusivity.
The broader discourse surrounding the incident may also influence future interactions between media personnel and political figures, prompting discussions about professional conduct, freedom of the press, and the responsibilities of leaders in handling criticism or scrutiny.
In conclusion, the episode underscores the delicate balance between political authority, community leadership, and press freedom. While the SNDP Yogam continues its social and cultural work, its leaders are reminded that their conduct in public interactions can have far-reaching implications for communal harmony, media independence, and the ideological climate in the state.
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