Thiruvananthapuram: BJP councillor R Sugathan, who is under preventive detention under Kerala Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act (Kaapa) and lodged at Viyyur Central Prison in Thrissur, was brought to Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday ahead of his scheduled appearance before a court.Prison authorities escorted Sugathan under tight security to Poojappura Central Prison in compliance with the court’s direction. He is expected to be produced before the jurisdictional court on Wednesday in connection with legal proceedings arising from the criminal cases registered against him.Sugathan, a BJP councillor representing Vazhottukonam ward in Thiruvananthapuram corporation, was detained under Kaapa after district collector issued a preventive detention order based on police reports alleging his repeated involvement in criminal offences.His arrest earlier this month attracted widespread attention after police fired warning shots into the air to disperse BJP workers who allegedly attempted to obstruct the arrest at his residence in Vattiyoorkavu. Sugathan is also an accused in an attempt-to-murder case linked to a clash during a temple festival.The councillor’s continued detention has also triggered political repercussions in the Thiruvananthapuram corporation, with the opposition demanding his disqualification and resignation, while his absence has reduced BJP-led NDA’s effective strength in the 101-member civic body.Officials said Sugathan will remain in judicial custody after the court proceedings unless any fresh orders are issued by the court.
