Thiruvananthapuram: Hidden-camera footage and an audio recording of a CPM councillor of Thiruvananthapuram corporation allegedly demanding Rs 10 lakh from a landowner to remove purported hurdles to the sale and development of his property surfaced on Friday.According to Sanju of Peyad, Ajin, who represents Thrikkannapuram ward, sought Rs 10 lakh in connection with the sale of a 19-cent property near Thrikkannapuram MLA Road.Meanwhile, Ajin refuted the allegations. He said the video was a ploy to frame him and he suspected the involvement of BJP workers. BJP activists on Friday staged a protest march towards his office, demanding his resignation.The councillor allegedly told the landowner that there were encroachments on the property and offered to help resolve the issue. He allegedly also threatened to use DYFI workers to put up party flags on the property and obstruct construction if the money wasn’t paid.In an audio recording that surfaced, the councillor purportedly demanded that at least Rs 3 lakh be paid immediately and warned that the situation could worsen if other political parties intervened.The landowner alleged that the councillor also threatened to get the police and village authorities to stop work citing the presence of a canal and drain through purported poramboke land.Sanju, however, said that officials, including the village officer, had conducted an inspection of the property and the mutation process had been completed. He said there were no legal impediments to the property.The landowner reportedly approached corporation authorities over the alleged demand but no action was taken. He said complaints were submitted to the police and home department.
