A security incident involving Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has sparked concern after his gunman and driver were allegedly attacked in Kerala’s Wandoor area during an election campaign visit.
Incident Details
According to police reports, the incident occurred on Friday evening around 7:30 pm near Chelithode in Wandoor, located in Kerala’s Malappuram district. A group of five individuals allegedly intercepted the convoy of the Thiruvananthapuram MP.
The First Information Report (FIR), filed based on a complaint by Tharoor’s driver, states that the attackers blocked the vehicle on a narrow road. When the gunman attempted to clear the obstruction, both he and the driver were reportedly assaulted.
Police Action
Local authorities have confirmed that one suspect has been taken into custody, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining accused. Police have registered a case and launched a detailed investigation into the matter.
Tharoor Responds
Responding to the incident, Shashi Tharoor reassured the public that he was unharmed. In a statement shared on social media, he expressed gratitude for the concern shown by supporters.
“My security guard was attacked, but he is well. I was untouched. We continued our programme as planned,” Tharoor stated.
Despite the disruption, the Congress leader proceeded with his scheduled campaign events.
Context: Kerala Assembly Elections 2026
The incident comes amid heightened political activity ahead of the Kerala Assembly elections, scheduled for April 9, 2026. Counting of votes will take place on May 4 alongside elections in several other states.
Tharoor has been actively campaigning for the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), expressing confidence in the alliance’s prospects of returning to power in the state.
Political Reactions and Concerns
The attack has raised questions about security arrangements during election campaigns and the safety of political representatives and their teams. Authorities are expected to review security protocols in the region as campaigning intensifies.
