Kochi, Dec 5 (NationPress) After a significant hiatus from media engagements, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan took to addressing a variety of political and administrative matters on Friday. He launched a fierce critique of the Congress-led opposition while staunchly defending the government’s actions regarding Sabarimala, university appointments, KIIFB, and the Travancore Devaswom Board.

Beginning with the PM-SHRI initiative from the Centre, Vijayan stated that all MPs, independent of their political affiliation, are “obligated to contribute to Kerala’s development”.

He observed a positive change, highlighting that, unlike in the past, Opposition MPs are now united on issues affecting Kerala. “They are the ambassadors of Kerala,” he commented, commending CPI(M) MP John Brittas for “performing admirably”.

Notably, Brittas faced scrutiny from the Congress-led UDF when Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan remarked that Brittas served as the link between the state and the Centre regarding the PM-SHRI scheme.

Regarding the case of Rahul Mamkootathil, CM Vijayan praised the police for their “commendable efforts” and cautioned that “those trying to shield him should refrain from doing so.”

Vijayan labeled the revelations as “a pitiable narrative from a maniac,” criticizing the Congress leadership for their silence despite the information being public.

“This is a party with a grand legacy. A Congress MLA was imprisoned in the past -- did they expel him?” he questioned.

On the Sabarimala gold heist, the CM opted not to take a stance, referencing the ongoing investigation and its oversight by the High Court, asserting, “let the investigation unfold. We will not protect anyone,” he stated.

Addressing the ongoing conflict with Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar over Vice-Chancellor appointments, CM Vijayan remarked that he adhered to the Supreme Court directives in communicating the government’s choices.

“The Governor’s different actions are perplexing. This is a serious breach. Let’s await the Supreme Court's decision,” he asserted.

In support of appointing former Chief Secretary K. Jayakumar as the president of the TDB, he noted that it was “widely accepted” due to Jayakumar’s extensive experience and “broad acceptability.”

In response to the Enforcement Directorate's notice concerning him and KIIFB, CM Vijayan expressed “surprise,” affirming that the state had clearly stated in 2016 that KIIFB was established to enhance infrastructure.

“We proudly acknowledge that we have been working towards Kerala’s development. KIIFB has raised ₹90,000 crore,” he remarked.

Furthermore, the Chief Minister criticized the Congress-UDF for their perceived electoral alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami, labeling it “self-destructive” as the organization’s principles are not embraced by the majority of Muslims.

“Similar to those promoting Hindu communalism, Jamaat-e-Islami advocates its own interpretation. The Congress is merely pursuing a few votes,” he stated.