Congress Leader Accused of Exploitation in Neyyattinkara Suicide Case

Thiruvananthapuram: A 52-year-old woman who died by suicide in Neyyattinkara has left behind a suicide note containing serious allegations against a local Congress leader. The accusation is primarily directed at Jose Franklin, who serves as the Chairman of the Neyyattinkara Municipal Health Standing Committee and is also a DCC General Secretary.

Police officials have indicated that the suicide note alleges that Franklin had repeatedly exploited the woman under the pretext of helping her secure a loan. The tragic incident occurred yesterday when the woman set herself ablaze after opening a gas cylinder. Initially perceived as an accidental death, the discovery of her suicide note later unveiled the grave accusations.

Franklin, as a DCC General Secretary, was allegedly exploiting the woman by promising to facilitate a loan from a cooperative bank under his leadership. Forensic teams investigating the residence located two separate notes, one each addressed to her son and daughter. It is understood that the woman had a chitty (a type of savings scheme) and an existing loan with the cooperative bank, and was seeking another loan, which Franklin allegedly leveraged for his exploitative actions.

Following the revelations, the woman’s son has come forward with further allegations against the Congress leader. He stated that Jose Franklin would threaten his mother and harass her with phone calls, even late at night. The son claimed that Franklin sexually coerced his mother and subjected her to immense harassment. He recounted instances where Franklin would arrive at their home on a motorbike, intimidating his mother. Consequently, his mother stopped pursuing the loan application. The son, who lost his mother, has demanded justice for her.

This incident has brought to light serious questions regarding the conduct of public figures and has led to calls for a thorough investigation to ensure justice for the deceased woman and her family.