Kochi: In a significant legal blow, Vellappally Natesan faced a setback as the High Court refused to grant an urgent stay on his removal from the General Secretary post of the SNDP Yogam.
The Chief Justice firmly rejected attempts to fast-track the case without notifying the opposing parties, putting a halt to Vellappally’s strategy to secure a quick comeback to power. The court has now scheduled the hearing for Thursday, ensuring both sides get a fair opportunity to present their arguments.
Vellappally’s camp had moved swiftly after the lower court verdict, seeking immediate relief by bypassing standard legal procedures. The plan was to obtain a stay order and regain control of the General Secretary position without delay. However, the court declined to entertain the plea for urgent intervention.
Adding to the challenge, an earlier High Court order mandating a valid Director Identification Number (DIN) for office-bearers of SNDP Yogam and its unions has emerged as a key hurdle. The ruling equated organizational office-bearers with company directors under corporate law, making DIN compulsory.
Legal troubles have been mounting for Vellappally’s faction. Previous court rulings enforcing the democratic principle of “one person, one vote” had already shaken the organization’s traditional power structure.
The lower court had ordered his removal following petitions by a rival faction, citing violations of bylaws and administrative irregularities.
With the case set for a crucial hearing on Thursday, all eyes are now on the High Court, where the outcome could shape the future leadership of SNDP Yogam. Until then, Vellappally remains out of the General Secretary post.
