Artists and Locals Protest Speaker's Absence in Kasaragod

The full story

The unveiling ceremony of a monumental sculpture dedicated to endosulfan tragedy victims in Kasaragod turned into a spontaneous protest after Assembly Speaker Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan withdrew from the event at the last minute. Artists, art lovers, and public representatives gathered from various parts of Kerala expressed deep disappointment and anger over the absence, viewing it as a sign of continued government neglect toward the district. When organisers suggested that Kasaragod MP Rajmohan Unnithan serve as an alternative chief guest, protesters rejected the proposal and insisted that veteran sculptor Kanayi Kunhiraman unveil his own work. During the demonstration, a documentary filmmaker snapped the ceremonial ribbon in protest. The ribbon was later retied, and Kanayi Kunhiraman ultimately cut it to formally unveil the 40-foot-tall 'Victims' installation.

Timeline

1. Nov 13

   An art historian snapped the ceremonial ribbon to register opposition before the sculptor formally unveiled the work.¹³

2. Nov 13

   Protesters rejected the proposal to have MP Rajmohan Unnithan unveil the monument instead.¹²³

3. Nov 13

   Assembly Speaker Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan withdrew from the unveiling ceremony at the last minute, triggering protests.¹²³