Is the CPI(M)-led Government in Kerala Mismanaging the Sabarimala Gold Heist Investigation and Wayanad Relief Efforts?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Criticism of Government: Satheesan's strong words against the CPI(M) government highlight concerns over accountability.
- Allegations of Fund Misuse: Claims of public funds being misused for political purposes raise serious questions.
- Focus on Investigations: The ongoing investigation into the Sabarimala gold heist remains a critical issue.
- Impact on Elections: The allegations come as Kerala approaches important Assembly elections.
- Public Response: The public's reaction to these claims could influence future political dynamics.
Kochi, Jan 17 (NationPress) The Leader of the Opposition in Kerala, V.D. Satheesan, voiced strong criticism on Saturday against the CPI(M)-led state administration. He accused the government of employing diversionary tactics to downplay the Sabarimala gold heist and disseminating “blatant falsehoods” regarding relief efforts for the Wayanad disaster. He alleged that public funds were being misused for partisan political activities in light of the upcoming Assembly elections.
In a media interaction held in Kochi, Satheesan expressed confidence that the UDF's support base would grow substantially ahead of the polls, while dismissing rumors about new political entities aligning with the Congress-led front.
“We have not indicated that any specific party, including factions of the Kerala Congress, will join the UDF. If there are any developments, we will notify the media,” he stated.
Regarding the Sabarimala gold heist, he claimed that the CPI(M) and the state government were intentionally trying to shift the focus away from the ongoing investigation.
“The inquiry is concerning the gold theft that occurred in 2019 and the subsequent attempt to steal again in 2025. Several prominent CPI(M) leaders are currently incarcerated in connection with this case. Instead of taking necessary action, the CPI(M) and the state government are protecting the accused,” he charged.
Commenting on attempts to resurrect past political issues related to the late Prayar Gopalakrishnan, Satheesan noted that these attempts were only aimed at diminishing the seriousness of a case that has “shocked Kerala”, involving the theft of “Lord Ayyappa's gold”.
He stated that the UDF has no objections to investigations of any period, including those monitored by the High Court, but cautioned against “mixing water into the gold heist”.
On the topic of Wayanad disaster relief, Satheesan accused the Kerala government of failing to provide rent and medical aid to numerous victims, despite the existence of Rs 742 crore contributed by the state's citizens lying in treasury.
He countered CPI(M)'s assertions that the UDF opposed contributions to the Chief Minister's Disaster Relief Fund, noting that UDF MLAs, including himself, had donated nearly Rs 19 lakh.
Additionally, he refuted claims of misappropriation of funds for housing, stating that the money remains in a joint account he shares with Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee President Sunny Joseph.
Satheesan also accused the CPI(M) of issuing directives to party workers discouraging arguments during home visits due to concerns over public backlash, warning of legal repercussions if government funds are utilized for election campaigning.
Moreover, he criticized Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's comments regarding secularism, alleging that the CPI-M is following the Sangh Parivar's strategy of leveraging communal tensions for political advantage while professing secular ideals.