The Kazhakuttam police have commenced an inquiry in connection with a violent altercation in which two hotel employees were brutally assaulted over a dispute regarding giving way to an autorickshaw. A case has been registered against a group including a Congress leader.
The police identified the victims as Abhi, 26, of Chathannoor, and Divya, 33, of Chirayinkeezhu. The assault was allegedly led by Shaji, a local office-bearer of the Congress Kazhakuttam block committee.
The incident occurred around 6.30 p.m. on Tuesday in front of a hotel in Kazhakuttam. While the employees were returning after work, a dispute broke out regarding giving side to an oncoming autorickshaw.
When the employees returned to the front of their establishment, Shaji, who resides nearby, allegedly followed them, and hurled verbal abuse and threats. When the employees questioned his behaviour, Shaji attempted to assault them. Although Divya tried to intervene and stop the confrontation, Shaji reportedly summoned a group of people who then joined in the attack.
The victims sustained serious injuries during the assault. Abhi suffered a deep wound to the head after being struck with a floor tile, and required 10 stitches. Divya was allegedly kicked to the ground and beaten, resulting in a fracture in her arm. Both victims are currently receiving medical care at the Thiruvananthapuram Government Medical College Hospital (MCH)
In a counter-allegation, Shaji and another person have also sought treatment at the MCH, claiming they were assaulted by the hotel staff.
Published – May 13, 2026 08:52 pm IST
