Kottayam (Kerala) | A farmer was found dead by hanging at a CPI office premises in this district of Kerala on Tuesday, police said.

The incident happened in Thalayazham near Vaikom, and the deceased was identified as Chellappan Pulikkasheri, a local farmer.

"He was a farmer and reportedly a local public activist. Inquest procedures are progressing. We have to confirm other details," a police officer said.

According to family sources, he had earlier levelled allegations against some local CPI leaders in connection with his agriculture-related activities.

Local people staged a protest for some time at the party office after his body was found hanging there.

The officer said there was no protest at the moment, and an investigation was underway.