T’puram: Malayinkeezhu police on Wednesday arrested the main accused in the attack on the house of a panchayat member, allegedly linked to a temple festival dispute.The accused identified as M Hemanth, 32, of Kunnumpuram in Anthiyoorkonam, was nabbed from Shanthumoola by a team led by Malayinkeezhu SHO Rakesh Kumar. A history-sheeter, he was earlier detained under Kerala Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act (Kaapa) in 2022. Police said he is involved in around 13 cases and steps are on to invoke Kaapa again. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon at the residence of Anappad ward panchayat member Chandralekha, who was alone at the time. A three-member gang that arrived on a motorcycle, allegedly brandished swords, ransacked the house and smashed windowpanes. Hemanth allegedly held a sword to her neck, threatened to kill her and tore her clothes, police said. Another accused, V Pramod, 36, was arrested earlier. Police said efforts are on to trace the remaining accused. BJP workers had earlier staged a march to Malayinkeezhu police station demanding swift action in the case.
