SFI leaders booked Kerala Secretariat march; police found evidence of blade recovery from the protest site

Police use water cannons to disperse SFI activists during a protest march to the Secretariat in Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday against the liquor tax relaxation announced in the state budget. | Photo credit: PTI

The Thiruvananthapuram city police have registered a case against 10 activists of the Students Federation of India (SFI) in connection with the violent protest that took place outside the secretariat on Wednesday.

According to the First Information Report, protesters allegedly used blades to cut ropes attached to police barricades during the demonstration. Besides, destruction of public property worth nearly ₹10,000 crore was also reported in the case.

In particular, police officers claimed to have obtained evidence, including video footage, of the recovery of blades from the protest site. Official sources said they have identified an SFI activist who allegedly brought blades to the protest and initially used them to cut a barricade rope before allegedly causing injuries during the ensuing confrontation.

SFÚ rejected the accusation and turned to the head of the state police with a request for a comprehensive investigation of the incident. In its complaint, the organization demanded an investigation into whether allegations of blade possession and use by its activists were factually accurate.

Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala said the police would thoroughly investigate the source of the blades. “The police have lathis and firearms. There is no need for blades. We will find out who brought the blades. Bringing blades to protest is a new method and such practices will not be allowed,” he said.

He added that instructions had been issued to identify those responsible and assured that anyone found guilty would be brought to justice, regardless of their affiliation.

Published – 25 Jun 2026 22:26 IST