CPI(M) office-bearer, 200 others booked for blocking police officers - The HinduPublished - July 21, 2026 08:42 pm IST - IDUKKIThe Thodupuzha police have registered a case against CPI(M) Thodupuzha East area secretary and nearly 200 others for allegedly blocking and obstructing police personnel during an inspection.The incident occurred late Sunday night at Mangattukavala near Thodupuzha, where locals gathered to watch a football match on a big screen. DYFI activists and residents intercepted Karimannoor police station sub-inspector Roy Sukumaran and his driver, alleging that both officers arrived on duty intoxicated.During the confrontation, local residents searched the police vehicle and reportedly discovered a liquor bottle.Thodupuzha police arrived at the scene shortly after to de-escalate the situation and escort the officers for a medical examination. While local protesters claimed that they were intoxicated, police officials said that initial reports were inconclusive and that blood samples have been sent for chemical analysis.Following the event, police booked CPI(M) area secretary Linu Jose and 200 identifiable individuals under various charges for interfering with police duties.Mr Jose criticised the police action. “When the sub-inspector and his driver were found drunk on duty, residents alerted the police. Playing cards and tobacco products were found in the officer’s cap, and a liquor bottle was recovered from the vehicle. Instead of taking action against the officers, the police have booked the citizens who raised a genuine issue. The party will fight against this legally and politically,” said Mr Jose.Police officials said that further departmental action will depend on the chemical test results. Meanwhile, the Idukki District Police Chief A Naseem has directed Thodupuzha Dy.SP. to submit a detailed report on the incident. Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala has also requested a report on the matter.Published - July 21, 2026 08:42 pm ISTSign in to unlock member-only benefits!Access 10 free stories every monthSave stories to read laterAccess to comment on every storySign-up/manage your newsletter subscriptions with a single clickGet notified by email for early access to discounts & offers on our products${ ind + 1 } ${ device }Last active - ${ la }