Is Kerala's CM Vijayan Ignoring Democratic Protests?
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Synopsis
V.D. Satheesan, Leader of Opposition in Kerala, strongly criticizes CM Pinarayi Vijayan for his handling of democratic protests and environmental issues. His allegations highlight a significant political divide and raise concerns about governance standards in the state.
Key Takeaways
- V.D. Satheesan critiques CM Pinarayi Vijayan's governance.
- Concerns raised over democratic protests and environmental issues.
- Allegations of double standards in handling misconduct complaints.
- Kerala's climate vulnerabilities highlighted as a pressing concern.
- Ongoing crisis in higher education noted.
Kochi, Dec 11 (NationPress) The Leader of Opposition in Kerala Assembly, V.D. Satheesan, fiercely criticized Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday. He accused the CM of showing disrespect for democratic protests, protecting party members from serious charges, and not acknowledging Kerala's climate vulnerabilities in key development plans.
According to Satheesan, the Chief Minister's recent remarks were astonishing and of extremely low quality, suggesting that he believed “someone in the CM's office crafted it” to win over online supporters during election season.
The public, he noted, would be taken aback by the decline in standards.
Satheesan's main contention was that the Chief Minister had aligned himself more with the ‘Modi government’, particularly by suggesting that public protests equate to destruction.
He remarked that such a stance from a Communist leader indicated a transition “from Marxism to bourgeois politics.”
In defense of UDF-led protests against initiatives like K-Rail, Satheesan asserted that environmental and climate issues were central to these movements.
He warned that Kerala is among the most climate-vulnerable areas, and any development plan neglecting environmental considerations—like the embankments proposed for K-Rail—could lead to a disaster.
He accused the CM of being “25 years outdated” in governance and criticized the government for its double standards regarding sexual misconduct allegations.
A complaint against former CPI(M) MLA P.T. Kunhumohammed reached the Chief Minister's office on November 27, but it was only sent to the police on December 2, with a case filed on December 8.
“Why was the complaint suppressed for 13 days?” Satheesan questioned, arguing that allegations against Congress leaders were addressed immediately, while those against CPI(M) members faced intentional delays.
Regarding the GAIL pipeline protests, he labeled the CM's derision of the protests as hypocritical, recalling that the government had only accepted crucial demands, including a tenfold increase in compensation, after the protests escalated.
In response to accusations regarding Jamaat-e-Islami's support for the UDF in the current elections, Satheesan noted that CPI(M) had received similar backing “for 42 years,” with several senior party members, including Pinarayi Vijayan, having previously engaged with the organization.
He also pointed out the crisis in higher education, mentioning that nine universities currently lack Vice Chancellors, a situation he attributes to the “prolonged conflict” between the Governor and the state government.
Point of View
The criticisms levied by V.D. Satheesan against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan highlight ongoing tensions in Kerala's political landscape. As governance issues and environmental challenges take center stage, it is crucial for the ruling party to address these concerns transparently. The opposition's stance may resonate with public sentiment, urging a reevaluation of leadership priorities.
NationPress
13/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Satheesan's main criticisms of CM Vijayan?
Satheesan criticized CM Vijayan for disrespecting democratic protests, failing to address climate vulnerabilities, and exhibiting double standards in handling misconduct allegations.
How did Satheesan describe the quality of the CM's responses?
He described the CM's responses as astonishing and of extremely low quality, suggesting they were crafted to impress online supporters.
What environmental concerns did Satheesan raise?
Satheesan highlighted Kerala's climate vulnerabilities, warning that neglecting these in development plans could lead to disasters.
What does Satheesan say about the handling of misconduct complaints?
He accused the government of double standards, noting that complaints against CPI(M) members were delayed while those against Congress leaders were acted on immediately.
What is the current situation regarding higher education in Kerala?
Satheesan pointed out that nine universities are without Vice Chancellors due to prolonged conflicts between the Governor and the state government.
