Two injured in CPM-CPI clash

THODUPUZHA: In a bloody clash involving CPM and CPI activists at Chinnakanal near Munnar in Idukki in the early hours of Monday, CPI Muttukadu local secretary Velusamy, 51, and CPM area committee member of Shantampara, Albin, 49, were injured.  According to Devikulam CI Vishal Johnson, Velusamy was admitted to Tata Hospital in Munnar with two fractures and multiple stab wounds, and his condition was said to be critical.  “He was referred to the Madurai Medical College owing to the gravity of the injury,” hospital sources said. Albin, who has suffered comparatively minor injuries, was admitted to the Medical Trust Hospital, Nedumkandam.According to the CPI sources, the attack was a retribution for the CPI’s initiatives in forming an independent union for the autorickshaw drivers in the area. The CPM leaders could not be reached for comments.  According to the police, some houses in Venad and Periyacanal area were also targeted. The police have registered four cases, including two attempts to murder under IPC 307.  However, they are yet to make any arrest in this  regard.