The distribution of sarees to women during an event in Puthuppally, Kottayam sparked a political row as the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) accused Congress MLA Chandy Oommen of trying to influence voters ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.
The sarees were distributed as part of a felicitation program for women workers under the Employment Guarantee Scheme, accredited social health activists and Anganwadi workers in Puthuppally constituency. The event was part of an event called Puthuppally Fest organized by Puthuppally Janakeeya Koottayma from February 28 to March 3.
Source of funds
The CPI(M), however, took strong exception to the move and alleged that the distribution was an attempt by the legislator to influence women voters ahead of the upcoming elections. The party also demanded that the MLA disclose the source of the funds, claiming that more than ₹2 million was spent on the purchase of sarees alone.
Subhash P. Varghese, CPI(M) Puthuppally area secretary, accused the MLA of adopting practices often seen in other states ahead of the elections. He further claimed that around ₹6 crore was spent on organizing the festival, which also featured programs attended by film stars.
“The event was organized under the banner of an unregistered cultural organization to avoid audit,” he alleged and urged the MLA to instead focus on initiatives that would actually benefit the people rather than indulging in such extravagance.
In response to the allegations, Mr. Oommen said he was willing to release all accounts related to the incident, including those related to the purchase of the sari. He added that all investigative agencies, including the Vigilance Department, are under the control of the government and can conduct investigations if any irregularity is suspected.
Published – 05 March 2026 20:14 IST
