T.N. Prathapan Takes Legal Action Against V.A. Firoz Over Defamatory Allegations

Original: Kerala Assembly Elections 2026: V.A. Firoz served ₹10-crore legal notice over ‘fake’ allegation against T.N. Prathapan

The Hindu•Apr 6, 20261 min

In a Nutshell

T.N. Prathapan, a candidate from the United Democratic Front in Kerala's Manalur constituency, has filed a ₹10 crore legal notice against V.A. Firoz for alleging he accepted ₹8 crore to manipulate votes for a rival candidate during the Lok Sabha elections. Prathapan claims the allegations are part of a conspiracy to damage his reputation.

Key Points

01T.N. Prathapan is demanding ₹10 crore in compensation from V.A. Firoz.
02The allegations involve accepting ₹8 crore to sway votes for BJP candidate Suresh Gopi.
03Prathapan describes the claims as baseless and defamatory.
04The allegations were made during a press conference at a CPI(M) office, suggesting political motives.
05Prathapan plans to take legal action if Firoz does not withdraw the allegations and apologize.

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Full Summary

T.N. Prathapan, a candidate from the United Democratic Front (UDF) in the Manalur constituency of Kerala, has initiated legal proceedings against V.A. Firoz for making serious allegations against him. Firoz claimed that Prathapan accepted ₹8 crore to influence votes in favor of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Suresh Gopi during the Lok Sabha elections. Prathapan has labeled these allegations as baseless and defamatory, stating they are part of a “deliberate conspiracy” aimed at damaging his reputation. He has issued a legal notice demanding ₹10 crore in compensation and has requested that Firoz retract the allegations and publicly apologize within 24 hours. If Firoz fails to comply, Prathapan has indicated he will pursue both civil and criminal action. The allegations were reportedly made during a press conference held at the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] district committee office, which Prathapan argues indicates a political nexus against him.

Key Figures

₹10 crore

Amount demanded in compensation by Prathapan

₹8 crore

Amount allegedly accepted to influence votes

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Why It Matters

This legal dispute could affect the political landscape in Kerala, particularly in the Manalur constituency, as it raises questions about electoral integrity and party politics.

Who is affected

voters in Manalur constituency and political parties involved

What to know

Voters should stay informed about the developments in this case as it may impact the upcoming elections.

FAQ

V.A. Firoz alleged that Prathapan accepted ₹8 crore to divert votes for BJP candidate Suresh Gopi.

Prathapan has sent a legal notice demanding ₹10 crore in compensation and is prepared to take civil and criminal action if the allegations are not retracted.

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