CPI(M) state secretary Govindan flays ‘hasty arrest’ of rapper Vedan

Rapper Vedan, who was arrested by the Forest Department for suspected possession of a leopard teeth, being brought to his apartment near Vyttila for evidence collection on April 29, 2025.
| Photo Credit: The Hindu

The case against Indian rapper Hirandas Murali, aka Vedan, has become a point of contention within the ruling Left Front, with CPI(M) Kerala secretary M.V. Govindan throwing his weight behind the rapper. Vedan is a sensation among the youth for the subaltern themes in his songs.

Mr. Govindan demanded an inquiry into the “hasty arrest” for possessing what was believed to be a leopard tooth, a wildlife trophy, worn as part of a necklace. He praised Vedan’s songs and said the haste shown to book him in the case was unwarranted.

“The party has no doubt that there was undue haste in registering a case against Vedan. He’s a singer who has deeply influenced the State’s youth. His talent should be encouraged,” Mr. Govindan said.

Regarding the police case against Vedan for alleged possession of ganja, Mr. Govindan said the singer had spoken out against the use of intoxicants. Although a small amount was seized and there were others with him, Vedan had admitted his guilt, acknowledging it was wrong. “It’s a good thing he admitted it,” Mr. Govindan said, endorsing the government action in this regard.

Mr. Govindan praised Vedan’s unique style of writing, music, and singing, suggesting he should be allowed to correct his mistakes and be recognised as a talented singer. Regarding the wildlife trophy case, Mr. Govindan noted Vedan’s claim that it was a gift, and he hadn’t known it was illegal to possess. “The serious case against him seems like disproportionate action. Let the court decide,” Mr. Govindan said.

Forest Minister A.K. Saseendran also sought to downplay the case, saying a scientific examination is needed to confirm if the seized item was indeed a leopard tooth. “The society expects maturity in handling such cases,” Mr. Saseendran, who had earlier defended the arrest, said.

Mr. Saseendran said the officials of the Forest department are duty-bound to respect the public sentiment in such cases. He added that there would be a departmental inquiry into the whole episode.