CPM's MM Mani Questions Vendor's Mental Health Amid Suicide Controversy

Kattappana: CPM veteran MM Mani has sparked controversy by questioning the mental health of vendor Sabu Thomas, who was found dead outside the Kattappana Rural Development Cooperative Society. Mani's remarks have drawn criticism from various quarters, including opposition parties and the public.

Sabu Thomas, a 50-year-old vendor, was discovered hanging in front of the cooperative society on December 20. A suicide note found near his body accused the bank secretary, Reji, and staff members Binoy and Sujamol of denying him access to his deposits, which he allegedly needed for his wife's medical treatment. His family and local residents have alleged that the bank's refusal to release funds led to his death.

In a policy clarification meeting organized by the Left Democratic Front (LDF) in Kattappana, Mani addressed the incident, stating, "We are deeply saddened by Sabu's death. Neither we nor our board or its president have any role in his death. We have done nothing that could be linked to such an outcome." He further suggested that an investigation should be conducted to determine whether Sabu had any mental health issues, implying that personal factors may have contributed to the tragedy.

Mani's comments have been met with backlash from opposition leaders and the public, who accuse him of attempting to deflect blame from the cooperative society and the CPM. Critics argue that raising questions about Sabu's mental health without substantial evidence is both insensitive and irresponsible.

The Kattappana Rural Development Cooperative Society, reportedly under CPM control, has faced scrutiny following the incident. Sabu's family alleges that he had deposited nearly ₹15 lakh in the society but was denied a ₹2 lakh withdrawal for urgent medical expenses. They claim that bank officials treated him rudely and refused to release the funds, leading to his decision to end his life.

The local community has expressed outrage over the incident, with protests erupting in Kattappana demanding justice for Sabu and accountability from the cooperative society. Political parties, including the Congress and BJP, have criticized the CPM's handling of the situation and called for a thorough investigation into the bank's practices.

Adding to the family's grief, Sabu's 90-year-old mother, Thresiamma, passed away on December 30, just ten days after her son's death. She had been bedridden due to age-related ailments, and her demise has intensified the community's demand for justice.

In response to the growing controversy, a nine-member investigative team, including two Circle Inspectors, has been formed to probe the circumstances surrounding Sabu's death. The investigation aims to uncover any misconduct by the cooperative society's officials and determine the validity of the allegations made in Sabu's suicide note.

This incident has also brought attention to MM Mani's history of making contentious statements. Known for his provocative remarks, Mani has previously faced criticism for comments perceived as insensitive or inflammatory. In this case, his suggestion to investigate Sabu's mental health has been seen by many as an attempt to shift focus away from potential institutional failures. Open URL