Why Are Congress Leaders in Kerala Opposing the PM-SHRI Scheme?
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Synopsis
In a significant political standoff, Congress leaders in Kerala are vocally opposing the PM-SHRI scheme, claiming it serves the BJP's agenda. This article delves into the implications of this controversy and highlights the potential impact on local governance and education policies.
Key Takeaways
- Congress leaders are opposing the PM-SHRI scheme in Kerala, claiming it serves the BJP’s political agenda.
- The initiative is viewed as a collaboration between CPI-M and BJP.
- K.C. Venugopal has raised concerns about the alignment of the scheme with educational policies.
- Discontent within the Left Democratic Front is evident regarding this issue.
- The controversy may have significant implications for Kerala's educational reform.
Kozhikode, Oct 22 (NationPress) Senior Congress figures in Kerala expressed strong disapproval on Wednesday regarding the state government's initiative to execute the PM-SHRI scheme, emphasizing that it should not serve to promote the BJP’s political agenda.
They also noted that this action signifies a covert agreement between the ruling CPI-M and the BJP.
AICC General Secretary K.C. Venugopal characterized the actions of the state government as indicative of a larger coordination between these two political parties.
“Considering the concealment of the Enforcement Directorate notice against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s son and the recurrent transfers related to the Lavlin case in the Supreme Court, this seems to be part of that understanding,” Venugopal asserted.
He criticized the CPI-M for executing the PM-SHRI scheme in a way that strays from the established policy guidelines.
“The PM-SHRI scheme was rolled out in Karnataka in 2021 under a BJP administration, not a Congress one, and in Telangana it was not initiated during Congress governance,” he pointed out.
Venugopal also condemned the Central government’s educational policies, questioning the suggestion for students to learn about Nathuram Godse instead of Mahatma Gandhi.
He inquired whether the Rs 1,400 crore allocated for the scheme could be intended to solidify this agenda and demanded transparency regarding CPI-M’s shift from its previous stance despite CPI opposition.
KPCC President Sunny Joseph echoed similar sentiments, insisting that the state should not succumb to the BJP’s political motives while implementing the scheme.
“The funds allocated by the Centre for Kerala’s development are derived from our tax contributions. These funds are our rightful claim, and no strings should be attached,” he asserted.
Joseph also highlighted the apparent discord within the Left Democratic Front (LDF) and indicated that Congress would closely observe whether the CPI maintains its opposition to the scheme.
Earlier in the day, CPI state secretary Binoy Viswam conducted a private meeting with the four CPI ministers, directing them to address the issue in the upcoming cabinet meeting.
During this meeting, CPI ministers did bring up the topic, but Chief Minister Vijayan and Education Minister V. Sivankutty refrained from providing comments.
CPI leaders voiced their dissatisfaction that this issue was not addressed in the larger LDF meeting and only became relevant after the Education Minister announced Kerala’s intention to proceed with the PM-SHRI program.
Point of View
The ongoing debate surrounding the PM-SHRI scheme in Kerala illustrates the complexities of local governance intertwined with national politics. As parties position themselves for electoral advantage, it is essential to prioritize educational reforms that genuinely benefit students over political maneuvers.
NationPress
07/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PM-SHRI scheme?
The PM-SHRI scheme is an educational initiative aimed at improving infrastructure and resources in schools across India.
Why are Congress leaders opposing it?
Congress leaders argue that the scheme is being used to further the BJP's political agenda and is not aligned with the state's educational priorities.
What are the implications of this opposition?
The opposition could lead to heightened political tensions in Kerala and may impact the implementation of educational reforms.
Who is K.C. Venugopal?
K.C. Venugopal is the AICC General Secretary and a prominent Congress leader in Kerala.
What was discussed in the CPI meeting?
CPI leaders discussed raising concerns about the PM-SHRI scheme at a cabinet meeting, reflecting internal disagreements within the Left Democratic Front.
