The controversial remark made by Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam leader Vellappally Natesan about autorickshaw driver M. Noushad has given a rude shock to the drivers’ fraternity in Kozhikode.
Leaders of the autorickshaw drivers’ coordination, which burnt Mr. Natesan in effigy on the Palayam bus stand premises on Sunday, said they would not allow the SNDP leader to proceed with his rally without withdrawing the statement and tendering public apology to the people of Kerala.
“As all knew, Noushad carried out the rescue operation without looking into the religion and caste of the victims. Only the wise would be able to sense such a sacrifice and pay respect to the departed soul,” they said.
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T.V. Noushad, vice president of the Autorickshaw Drivers Union affiliated to the Centre of Indian Trade Unions said: “The SNDP leader was trying to hurt the sentiments of the bereaved family members of Noushad with his imprudent statements.”
The district committee of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) also expressed rude shock over the statement made by Mr. Natesan.
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IUML district president Ummer Pandikasala said the people of Kerala would give him (Mr. Natesan) the reply for the malicious comment.
“Since the beginning of his rally from Kasaragod, we have been hearing only immature comments from the SNDP leader and, therefore, we are not surprised about the latest one,” said Mr. Pandikasala.
“His attempt to hurt the communal sentiments will backfire on him as people in Kerala are educated and prudent enough to identify such ploys,” he pointed out.