Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 9 (IANS): The Congress-led Opposition in Kerala on Monday demanded immediate restoration of armed security cover of former Kerala High Court judge, Justice (retd.) B. Kemal Pasha.

Leader of Opposition Ramesh Chennithala wrote to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan that Pasha had a glittering career as a judge.

He mentioned in the letter that Pasha came out with numerous path breaking judgments, and was provided security following threats to his life.

"He has been one judge who has handed out the maximum life sentences to the accused in various cases. He has been under threat from the Islamic State also.

"Of late, he has been critical of the Kerala government on certain issues and the sudden withdrawal of his security might be mistook by the people. Nothing should happen to his safety. Hence, his security should be restored," Chennithala wrote in the letter.

Pasha, known for his razor-sharp tongue, reacted sharply last week by saying he cannot be silenced through the withdrawal of security cover, and will continue to air his opinions.