The police use water cannons to disperse SFI activists during a protest march to the Secretariat in Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday against liquor tax relaxations announced in the State Budget.
| Photo Credit: PTI
The Thiruvananthapuram City police have registered a case against 10 Students’ Federation of India (SFI) activists in connection with the violent protest that unfolded in front of the Secretariat on Wednesday.
According to the First Information Report, the protesters allegedly used blades to cut the ropes attached to the police barricades during the demonstration. Besides, destruction of public property worth nearly ₹10,000 has also been reported in the case.
Notably, police officers claimed to have recovered evidence, including video footage, on the discovery of blades from the protest venue. Official sources said they have identified an SFI activist who allegedly brought the blades to the protest and initially used them to cut the barricade ropes before purportedly causing injuries during the ensuing confrontation.
Rejecting the allegations, the SFI has approached the State Police Chief, seeking a comprehensive investigation into the incident. In its complaint, the organisation demanded an inquiry into whether the accusations regarding possession and use of blades by its activists are factually accurate.
Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala said that police would thoroughly investigate the source of the blades. “The police have lathis and firearms. There is no need for blades. We will find out who brought the blades. Bringing blades to a protest is a new method, and such practices will not be allowed,” he said.
He added that instructions had been issued to identify those responsible and assured that anyone found guilty would be brought before the law, regardless of their affiliation.
Published – June 25, 2026 10:26 pm IST