Sugathan’s signature controversy: CCTV visuals unavailable, claims Corporation, S P Deepak says attempt to create smokescreen 

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: CPM councillor S P Deepak has reiterated allegations that BJP councillor R Sugathan forged his signature in the attendance register with the backing of Mayor V V Rajesh.

Some visuals have appeared. However, he clarified that the corporation itself officially informed him that the CCTV footage from the council hall is not available. He also alleged that an attempt is being made to create a smokescreen on the issue.

Deepak added that the video released by the mayor is fake and everybody knows what its for. He said that if the forged signature is proven, Sugathan will have to be expelled, which will cause the BJP to lose its present simple majority. He added that if that happens, V V Rajesh will lose his mayoral post.

Soon after the police registered a case based on the opposition's complaint that Vazhottukonam councillor R Sugathan did not attend three council meetings, V V Rajesh yesterday released footage showing Sugathan attending the meeting on April 27. The mayor released footage that had been aired by various television channels.

Soon after the visuals were released, Mayor V V Rajesh had sent a legal notice to S P Deepak yesterday. The notice was sent via advocate Senthil Kumar demanding a compensation of Rs 5 crore. The notice sent pointed that the allegations are false and defamatory to his personality. It also warned of a legal action if compensation is not paid within 15 days.