Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 27 (NationPress) Kerala's General Education Minister V. Sivankutty fiercely confronted the Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan on Tuesday, dismissing the criticism aimed at the state’s public education system and intensifying the political clash surrounding the Sabarimala gold theft incident.

In response to Satheesan’s comments regarding school quality, Sivankutty highlighted that no other administration has come close to the LDF’s commitment, having invested nearly Rs 9,000 crore in public education in the last decade.

He challenged the Congress party to provide similar accomplishments in the states under its governance, asserting that the opposition leader’s allegations were politically charged and not grounded in reality.

The minister accused Satheesan of attempting to wrongly associate him with the Sangh Parivar, reminding that it was the Left that ended the BJP's electoral efforts in Nemom.

Turning the tables, Sivankutty alleged that Satheesan had previously engaged in events linked to the RSS, a claim he stated is backed by documented proof.

Regarding the Sabarimala gold theft, Sivankutty called out the Congress for its hypocrisy in invoking religious sentiments while allegedly protecting those implicated in the case.

He referenced a photo that reportedly shows the main suspect alongside Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, labeling it as “not just a picture, but a series of unanswered questions.”

Sivankutty insisted that it is crucial for the Special Investigation Team (SIT), operating under the High Court's supervision, to question Sonia Gandhi to determine if a broader criminal conspiracy is at play.

He raised significant concerns about how an accused person could access a high-security residence monitored by the SPG and questioned whether senior Congress leaders facilitated this access.

The minister also mentioned what he referred to as the “Bellary connection,” alleging that the stolen gold was traded in Bellary, a constituency once held by Sonia Gandhi, and called for an inquiry into potential hawala or smuggling operations.

Additionally, he accused Satheesan of disseminating false information on various subjects, including the Punarjani case, supposed foreign fundraising trips, the Vizhinjam port project, Wayanad rehabilitation claims, and Assembly incidents.

He remarked that the opposition leader's repeated contradictions have significantly undermined his credibility.

Satheesan has frequently criticized Sivankutty for his inappropriate behavior during Assembly sessions when he was in opposition.

During the 2015 state Budget presentation, Sivankutty was seen jumping over the table with his dhoti raised, revealing his underwear.

On Tuesday, Satheesan expressed concern over the state of education, stating it is disheartening to see school children studying while Sivankutty holds the position of Education Minister.