Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan criticized Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for retaining Antony Raju in his Cabinet despite his conviction in an evidence-tampering case. Satheesan accused the Chief Minister of providing political protection to Raju, allowing him to contest elections and hold a ministerial position. Youth Congress activists protested Raju's position as MLA, demanding his resignation, while Congress workers attempted to block his vehicle, leading to police intervention.