Alappuzha | Security has been tightened at the residence of rebel CPI(M) leader G Sudhakaran in Alappuzha after protests by party workers over his decision to contest the upcoming Assembly elections as an independent candidate from the Ambalapuzha constituency.

Police officials said on Friday that patrol teams and a police vehicle from the Punnapra police station have been deployed near Sudhakaran's house to maintain law and order amid rising tensions.

The protests began soon after the veteran leader announced on Thursday that he would enter the fray as an independent candidate.

Angry CPI(M) workers put up posters near his home calling him a "traitor" and raised slogans against him.

Sudhakaran had been a prominent face of the CPI(M) in the coastal district for several decades and previously served as a state minister. Known for his clean image and administrative experience, he recently said he would not renew his party membership.

The former minister alleged that a section of CPI(M) cadres had been targeting him with personal attacks on social media, which contributed to his decision to distance himself from the party.