Did Congress Show Unmatched Transparency in the MLA Row?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Congress demonstrates transparency in handling complaints.
- Quick response to allegations sets a precedent.
- Contrast with Left Democratic Front's internal handling of issues.
- Commitment to moral accountability and due process.
- Party leadership to meet for further discussions.
Pathanamthitta, Dec 2 (NationPress) The Kerala Leader of the Opposition, V.D. Satheesan, declared on Tuesday that the Congress party has exhibited unparalleled transparency and accountability in addressing the recent complaint lodged against party MLA Rahul Mamkootathil.
“No other political organization in Kerala has acted with such integrity,” Satheesan stated.
He highlighted that the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president promptly sent the complaint to the State Police Chief within an hour of receiving it, without retaining it in his possession even momentarily.
“What more exemplary conduct can a political party exhibit?” he questioned.
In contrast, he pointed to the Left Democratic Front’s approach to complaints.
“Numerous serious allegations have been presented to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the CPI(M) state secretary, yet none have been forwarded to the police,” he mentioned.
“However, in this case, the KPCC president immediately forwarded the complaint to the police. Let them investigate and take necessary action,” he stated.
Satheesan reaffirmed that the Congress had taken a principled stance even when the initial FIR was lodged in the previous case involving the MLA.
“We maintained that the law should prevail. The party has taken a firm and consistent stance. No other party in Kerala has demonstrated such resilience,” he said.
He noted that Congress had initiated disciplinary measures in the earlier incident even before any formal complaint was filed.
“This alone reflects our dedication to moral accountability,” he added.
Regarding the new allegation, Satheesan mentioned that party leadership would collectively deliberate on the matter and decide on future actions.
He stressed that the KPCC chief received the complaint with a request for internal party action, but due to its criminal nature, it was appropriately forwarded to the police.
“No other party has acted in this manner in Kerala,” Satheesan asserted.
“The CPI(M), even when faced with complaints against its own leaders, tends to handle them internally and quietly. In contrast, we stand tall and proud. Upon receiving a complaint, we referred it directly to the police. We do not aim to shield anyone. If a mistake is made, it is the police's duty to investigate and determine the course of action,” he concluded.