Congress Leader Simi Rose Bell John alleges exploitation within Kerala Congress

Allegation of close associates of senior leaders being favoured

Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) – Simi Rose Bell John, a leader from the Kerala Congress, has accused the party of creating a ‘casting couch’ scenario similar to that seen in the film industry, where exploitation is prevalent. In an interview with a news channel, Simi claimed that only those close to senior leaders are given opportunities within the party. Following these allegations, the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) General Secretary M Liju issued a statement announcing Simi Rosebell John’s expulsion from the party.

Allegations made by Simi Rose Bell John against Congress :

1. Women face exploitation in all areas, including workplaces and politics. Many female colleagues in the party have told me about their bad experiences.

2. I advise women leaders in Kerala Congress not to meet leaders alone but to take family members or friends with you. I have evidence that will be revealed at an appropriate time.

3. Women leaders and workers within Kerala Congress must be prepared to face exploitation in order to get opportunities.

Anything can happen to me : Simi Rose Bell John

In response over the accusations, Simi held a press conference in Kochi, where she mentioned that other prominent women leaders like Latika Subhash and K. Karunakaran’s daughter, Padmaja Venugopal, were also ousted from the party. She said that women with self-respect cannot work within the Congress. Simi expressed fear for her safety, stating that she is afraid to go out and that anything could happen to her.

Simi’s allegations are baseless : Congress

Kerala Congress President K. Sudhakaran responded to the allegations, stating that the Women’s Congress has lodged a complaint against Simi Rose Bell John. He dismissed her accusations as baseless.

Editorial Perspective

The authoritarianism within the Gandhi-led and supposedly non-violent Congress is evident. Will women’s organisations stand up for the woman who exposed the true state of affairs within the Congress, which claims to protect democracy ?