Financial Irregularities and BJP Leadership Neglect Led to Councillor K. Anil Kumar’s Suicide

Thiruvananthapuram: The death by suicide of K. Anil Kumar, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) councillor from Thirumala ward in Thiruvananthapuram City Corporation, has triggered widespread political tremors and renewed scrutiny over alleged financial mismanagement in a cooperative society under the leadership of BJP. 

Anil Kumar, who also served as president of the Thiruvananthapuram District Farm Tour Co-operative Society, was found dead at the BJP office on September 20. A suicide note recovered from the scene cited acute financial distress stemming from his responsibilities within the society, as well as abandonment by sections of the party leadership.

Anil Kumar had led the Valiyasala Farm Tour Society—for over 15 years. At the time of his death, the society was reportedly burdened with liabilities amounting to Rs. 6 crore, despite declared assets of Rs. 11 crore. An inspection by the Assistant Registrar’s office, through the Vattiyoorkavu unit inspector, revealed several instances of financial and administrative irregularities.

Investigators found that loans amounting to Rs. 2.54 crore were disbursed to ineligible ‘C-class’ memberss—individuals who, under cooperative regulations, are not eligible for credit facilities. This direct violation of the cooperative law not only breached the society's own by-laws but also significantly contributed to its mounting financial crisis, as a substantial portion of these loans remain unrecovered.

Additionally, the society recorded a default of Rs. 4.1 crore under various monthly deposit schemes, further compounding its financial instability.

The inspection also revealed that interest payments totalling Rs. 14.14 lakh were made to depositors, despite such payments being in clear violation of cooperative laws. Furthermore, the society had appointed collection agents and temporary staff to posts that did not officially exist, resulting in an additional financial liability of Rs. 1.18 crore.

A particularly contentious transaction involved a personal advance of Rs. 3.33 lakh taken by Anil Kumar, allegedly for organising a BJP event. The amount, however, remained unpaid at the time of his death, and his suicide note indicated that party leaders had failed to reimburse the sum despite prior assurances.

Investigators also flagged the misuse of loans sanctioned under the names of ordinary depositors, reportedly on the recommendation of senior political leaders, with funds allegedly diverted to others through benami transactions.

In his suicide note, Anil Kumar expressed deep mental anguish over the financial crisis and stated that neither he nor his family had benefitted from society funds. He noted that depositors had shown patience, but lack of institutional and political support pushed him into despair.

He appealed for a transparent audit of the society’s accounts and voiced frustration over being left alone to manage the fallout. He further alleged that despite his unwavering support for the party and efforts to help workers, BJP leadership did not stand by him during the crisis.

BJP State President Rajeev Chandrasekhar expressed sorrow over the death but denied any lapse on the part of the leadership. When questioned about the suicide note’s contents, he dismissed the allegations and criticised media coverage, accusing some outlets of sensationalism. 

In a heated exchange with a journalist from Kairali News, his response carried the air of someone unwilling to answer any questions, brushing aside the press with the impatience and authority reminiscent of a feudal lord. Speaking in Malayalam, he said, “Kairali aanel nee avide ninnal mathi. Nee chodikkanda” — roughly translated as, “If you are from Kairali, just stand there. Don’t ask questions.” His reaction was widely condemned by media associations, journalist unions and political parties and other organisation as dismissive and disrespectful during a time that demanded accountability and transparency.

Party insiders, however, suggest growing discontent among grassroots workers, many of whom allege that Anil Kumar was sidelined despite being a committed, non-ambitious worker. Reports indicate that Anil had privately warned fellow councillors that suicide might be his only option if the crisis continued unresolved. 

The BJP is also facing criticism for now attempting to distance itself from the cooperative society. While leaders have claimed it was an independent entity, records show multiple BJP councillors were involved in its operations. The society is registered under the Sangh Parivar-affiliated Sree Padmanabha Seva Samithi, where Anil Kumar served as president.

The controversy has also taken a disturbing turn with journalists facing threats and harassment while covering the story. Reporters from Kairali News, Deshabhimani and other outlets were verbally and physically abused and obstructed by BJP workers outside the party office and in public areas. Police were deployed to control the situation.

The Kerala Union of Working Journalists (KUWJ) condemned the incidents and urged all political parties to uphold press freedom during such sensitive investigations.

Anil Kumar’s wife, Asha, directly held state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar responsible for the tragedy.

The family has also questioned the BJP leadership’s awareness of the situation, asserting that senior leaders—including Union Minister V. Muraleedharan—had knowledge of the financial turmoil but did not intervene.

The Poojappura Police have registered a case of unnatural death. The post-mortem confirmed hanging as the cause. While the suicide note points to financial stress as a motive, police say they are investigating all angles, including allegations of mismanagement and abetment.

(If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please remember that help is available and it is confidential. You are not alone. Call DISHA Helpline: 1056 (24/7) National Suicide Prevention Helpline: 91-22-2772 6771 / 91-22-2772 6773 (24/7) If you are in immediate danger, please call 112. Please reach out—support is available.)