Dispute Over Speaking Turn Leads to Tense Scenes at UDF Rally; Shafi Parambil Protests Speaking Order

Kozhikode: Tensions flared at the UDF rally led by Opposition Leader V D Satheesan when Shafi Parambil expressed anger over not being invited to speak at his expected turn. In a dramatic turn of events, Shafi reportedly grabbed one of the leaders by the neck and attempted to leave the stage in protest. Senior leaders intervened and prevented him from walking out.

The incident occurred when the rally reached Kuttiyadi. As DCC Secretary and event chairman Pramod Kakattil took charge of the proceedings, Satheesan was invited to address the gathering. Shafi, who had been prepared to speak, objected to the decision and reacted angrily. Witnesses said he pushed Pramod aside, expressing his displeasure at not being given the opportunity to speak first.

Despite efforts by senior leaders, including Parakkal Abdullah and DCC President Praveen Kumar, to calm him down, Shafi attempted to step off the stage. However, leaders restrained him and ensured he remained on stage until Satheesan concluded his speech.

After Satheesan finished, Shafi initially declared that he would no longer address the gathering. In the ensuing commotion, he again confronted the Pramod Kakattil before eventually being invited to the microphone. Beginning by stating that he did not intend to speak, Shafi concluded his address in a single line and returned to his seat.

Sources indicated that Shafi had expected to speak before Satheesan. His supporters maintained that once the march captain delivered his speech, many in the crowd were likely to disperse, leaving little purpose in addressing a diminished audience.