Yuva Morcha leader ‘threatens’ Keralotsavam judges

A Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) activist in Cherthala allegedly issued death threats to judges during a Kalaripayattu competition at the Keralotsavam in Velliyakulam. Athul Krishna, who also runs a Kalaripayattu training centre, stormed the stage at NSS Hall in Velliyakulam and threatened both the district president of the Kalaripayattu association and the judges. Visuals of the episode have since surfaced in the public domain.

Reports indicate that the outburst was triggered by dissatisfaction over the marks awarded to his wards in the competition. During the altercation, he allegedly threatened to break the legs and even kill those involved in judging the event. The police were promptly called to the venue and they escorted the judges to safety.

Officials of the Kalaripayattu association have lodged a complaint with the District Police Chief. Preliminary investigations suggest that Athul Krishna has a history of creating disturbances at similar events, including school-level sports competitions.