BJP Alleges Conspiracy to Eradicate Jewish Presence in Kerala
BJP Kerala VP KS Radhakrishnan alleges a conspiracy to target Jewish sites in Kochi following an arson attack near the Kadavubhagam Synagogue.
In a startling accusation, the Vice-President of the BJP in Kerala, KS Radhakrishnan, has alleged a coordinated attempt to "eradicate" the historical Jewish presence in the state. This claim follows a recent arson attack near the Kadavubhagam Synagogue in Kochi, which the leader linked to previous incidents targeting Jewish sites in the region.
A Pattern of Attacks?
Speaking to ANI, Radhakrishnan suggested that the recent arson attempt is not an isolated event but part of a larger, calculated move. He pointed to a fire at a Jewish site in Mattancherry approximately a week prior—an incident previously described as accidental—and a reported bomb threat against a synagogue as evidence of a "method in that madness."
The BJP leader emphasized the historical significance of the Jewish community in Kerala, noting that India is unique as a place where Jews have not faced persecution. He highlighted the community's vital contributions to the industrial and urban development of Kochi.
Security Concerns and Political Allegations
Radhakrishnan raised serious questions regarding the security measures maintained by the state government. He alleged that warnings issued by the Centre to bolster security at Jewish establishments have been largely ignored. According to the BJP leader, the Centre has issued such warnings on 15 separate occasions.
The Vice-President also leveled heavy political accusations, claiming that the Congress-led Kerala government is being guided by the Indian Union Muslim League. He further alleged that the Muslim League is controlled by Jamaat-e-Islami, which he claimed has links to international terror organizations. He suggested that a wider design, potentially involving international elements, may be behind the attacks on Jewish establishments.
Police Investigation and Arrest
While these political allegations remain unverified, the Kochi Police have made significant progress in the criminal investigation. Authorities have arrested a 32-year-old man, identified as Ebin Paul, in connection with an arson attack on a nursery near the Kadavubhagam Synagogue on October 12.
Key details from the police investigation include:
- Modus Operandi: Investigators suspect petrol was used to ignite the fire.
- Digital Evidence: The accused allegedly recorded the arson on his mobile phone before fleeing.
- Suspicious Communications: Police reported finding communications on his phone referring to Jewish places of worship and attacks in various Indian cities.
- Financial Links: Investigators are looking into suspected cryptocurrency payments from an individual referred to as "Boss."
- Other Crimes: The accused is being examined for potential links to a previous arson incident in Muvattupuzha, and a search of his residence led to the seizure of suspected illegal narcotics.
A special investigation team, supported by central agencies, is currently scrutinizing the accused's digital devices and financial records to determine the motive and establish whether there is a wider network involved in these crimes.