‘Kafir screenshot’ row in Kerala: K.K. Shailaja says probe must continue; Shafi Parambil welcomes SIT inquiry

Former Kerala Health Minister KK Shailaja said the Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigation ordered by the Home Ministry into the controversial ‘Kafir screenshot’ episode in Vadakara during the Lok Sabha elections should be allowed to proceed and identify those responsible.

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Responding to media questions, Ms. Shailaja said she had no knowledge of the matter and “the investigation will continue” whether she likes it or not.

He maintained that his role in the election was only that of a candidate and claimed that there was no social polarization in Vadakara.

Meanwhile, Vadakara MP Shafi Parambil welcomed the government’s decision to set up an SIT to investigate the controversy.

Mr. Parambil, in his statement, alleged that the “fake screenshot” was a planned occurrence by the CPI(M) to disrupt the harmonious atmosphere in Vadakara and create communal divisions among the voters for political gain.

He said the SIT investigation must uncover the real conspirators behind the misinformation campaign and trace its source so that those responsible can be brought to justice.

The screenshot controversy emerged during the Lok Sabha election campaign in Vadakara and triggered allegations and counter-allegations among political parties regarding their attempts to influence voters through social narratives. The Ministry of Home Affairs has now ordered a special SIT investigation into the matter.