Union Home Minister Amit Shah encountered a dramatic black‑flag protest staged by Youth Congress activists during his arrival in Kerala on Saturday. The incident unfolded outside the Asramam ground in Kollam, where demonstrators attempted to disrupt his itinerary.
Moments after Shah’s helicopter landed, protesters led by Youth Congress leader Binu Chulliyil surged toward the moving motorcade, waving black flags and shouting slogans. Security personnel quickly intervened, forcibly removing the demonstrators and clearing the route for the convoy.
The protest sparked a tense standoff between Youth Congress workers and local BJP supporters, highlighting the charged political atmosphere in Kerala. While police managed to contain the situation, the confrontation underscored growing friction between the ruling BJP at the Centre and Opposition parties in the state.
Youth Congress leaders said the demonstration was aimed at registering dissent against the Union government’s policies, accusing Shah of ignoring Kerala’s concerns. BJP leaders, however, dismissed the protest as a publicity stunt, insisting that it would not derail the Home Minister’s engagements.
The incident adds to a series of confrontations witnessed during high‑profile political visits in Kerala, reflecting the state’s volatile political climate ahead of upcoming electoral battles.
