Why Are Kerala's Communist Parties Targeting Governor Over Bharat Mata Image Dispute?
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Synopsis
Kerala's political landscape is heating up as the ruling Left parties clash with Governor Arlekar over the controversial Bharat Mata image. The CPI and CPI(M) are voicing strong objections, leading to protests and heightened tensions. What does this mean for Kerala's governance and the role of the Governor? Dive into this unfolding drama.
Key Takeaways
- Kerala's Left parties are firmly opposed to the Governor's insistence on the Bharat Mata image.
- The conflict has escalated into protests and political backlash.
- Both CPI and CPI(M) are advocating for significant changes to the Governor's role.
- The standoff highlights ongoing tensions in state-central relations.
- Historical precedents suggest this is a recurring issue in Kerala politics.
Thiruvananthapuram, June 7 (NationPress) The conflict between Kerala’s ruling Left factions and Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar escalated on Saturday, as both the CPI and CPI(M) continued their criticism of his demand for an image of Bharat Mata to be displayed at official events.
This controversy began earlier this week when State Agriculture Minister P. Prasad boycotted the state-level Environment Day celebrations at the Raj Bhavan, protesting against the Governor’s insistence on showcasing the Bharat Mata image on the dais.
The boycott incited a significant political backlash, with both Communist parties condemning the action as an attempt to politicize a constitutional office.
The Communist Party of India (CPI) amplified its protest by sending a letter to the President of India on Thursday, demanding the immediate dismissal of Governor Arlekar for allegedly breaching constitutional norms and undermining federal principles.
The CPI also held statewide sapling-planting campaigns on Saturday as a symbolic protest against what they termed the “saffronisation” of the Raj Bhavan.
On the other hand, the CPI(M) reiterated its longstanding call for the complete abolition of the Governor’s position.
CPI(M) state secretary M.V. Govindan stated, “The Communist movement in India -- both in its unified form and as CPI and CPI(M) -- has consistently advocated for the abolition of the Governor’s role. A constitutional amendment is necessary, and we will continue to push for it.”
Tensions heightened in Minister P. Prasad’s hometown of Alappuzha on Saturday when BJP and RSS members attempted to hold a procession carrying the Bharat Mata image and perform prayers outside his residence.
Fortunately, a strong police presence managed to control the situation, preventing any major disturbances.
CPI Rajya Sabha MP P. Santhosh Kumar, who was among the first to object after the Raj Bhavan incident, had previously written to the President demanding the removal of Governor Arlekar.
This is not the first instance of the Governor’s office facing criticism from Kerala’s Left government.
Arlekar’s predecessor, Arif Mohammed Khan, also frequently clashed with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, particularly regarding university appointments and delays in approving legislative bills.
The tension peaked when the state cabinet chose not to attend Khan’s farewell function, which is a customary gesture when a governor leaves office.
In contrast, Vijayan was observed personally welcoming Arlekar at the airport upon his arrival in the state, indicating hopes for a fresh beginning. However, that optimism was short-lived.
Last month, Governor Arlekar invited RSS ideologue S. Gurumurthy to deliver a lecture at Raj Bhavan following the conclusion of Operation Sindhoor -- a move that received significant backlash from both CPI and CPI(M) leaders.
Chief Minister Vijayan himself commented that it was inappropriate to turn the Governor’s official residence into a platform for the RSS.
Now, with Arlekar steadfast in his decision to keep the Bharat Mata image at public functions, the confrontation shows no signs of resolution.
Point of View
The ongoing tensions between Kerala's Left government and Governor Arlekar illuminate the broader dynamics of federalism in India. The conflict raises essential questions about the role of constitutional offices and the extent to which they should remain apolitical. This situation warrants close attention as it could set precedents for similar interactions between state governments and the central authority.
NationPress
07/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the controversy between Kerala's Left parties and Governor Arlekar?
The controversy began when State Agriculture Minister P. Prasad boycotted Environment Day celebrations at Raj Bhavan, protesting the Governor's insistence on displaying the Bharat Mata image.
What actions have the CPI and CPI(M) taken in response to the Governor's actions?
Both parties have criticized the Governor's actions, with the CPI writing to the President demanding his recall, and the CPI(M) calling for the abolition of the Governor's post altogether.
How has the situation escalated in Kerala?
Tensions escalated with protests in Alappuzha, where BJP and RSS workers attempted to stage a procession with the Bharat Mata image outside Minister P. Prasad's residence.
What is the historical context of conflicts between Kerala's Left government and the Governor's office?
Previous Governor Arif Mohammed Khan also faced conflicts with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, particularly regarding university appointments and legislative bill approvals.
What does the current standoff indicate about Kerala's political environment?
The standoff reflects ongoing tensions between state and central authorities and raises questions about the role of the Governor in state politics.
