Explained | The ‘Kafir Screenshot’ Case in Kerala The story so far A special investigation team (SIT) of the Kerala police is investigating the creation and circulation of a controversial WhatsApp screenshot with communal undertones in the Vadakara constituency of Kozhikode.
The incident occurred ahead of the Lok Sabha elections scheduled for April 26, 2024. The screenshot, which allegedly sought votes on religious lines, has raised significant political and legal questions. What is the case about?
The screenshot, purportedly posted in a WhatsApp group called ‘Youth League Nedumbramanna,’ appeared to be from P.K. Mohammed Khasim, the district secretary of the Muslim Students Federation (MSF), the student wing of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML).
The message allegedly urged votes for United Democratic Front (UDF) candidate Shafi Parambil, describing him as a "deeni yuvavu" (pious and religious youth) while questioning whether voters should support him or a "kafir (infidel) woman." The rival candidate for the Left
Democratic Front (LDF) was senior CPI(M) leader K.K. Shailaja. Initial complaints and developments The controversy began when C. Bhaskaran, a functionary of the LDF election campaign committee, filed a complaint with the local police, calling for an investigation. P.K.
Mohammed Khasim denied involvement, surrendered his mobile phone to the police, and lodged his own complaints, claiming that the alleged WhatsApp group did not exist.
The police registered two cases—one against Khasim under sections of the Indian Penal Code for promoting enmity on religious grounds, and another against "unidentified persons" under minor charges.
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