It was slugfest with Opposition leader V.S. Achuthanandan accusing his comrade and CITU leader M.M. Lawrence of having dumped his wife in a mental asylum.
The provocation for the personal affront here on Friday followed Lawrence’s taunt the previous day that VS had fled the scene of the Punnappra uprising, fearing arrest.
Here to attend a public function organised by Cochin Minerals and Rutiles Ltd which also earned the wrath of environmentalists, VS said when he was chief minister, Lawrence’s daughter had raised this issue of ill-treatment Lawrence had meted out to her mother.
In the present conditions, he did not wish to speak more and rake up a horrid past. Otherwise, it would force him to reveal some unpleasant truths, VS said.
In response, Lawrence said VS’ comment pointed to his character or lack of it. He said he had to treat his wife who was ill, and had done it as a responsible husband.