Is the Bharat Mata Image Controversy Deepening? CM Vijayan to Communicate with Governor

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Political tensions rise in Kerala over the Bharat Mata image.
- The Chief Minister plans to formally address the issue.
- Opposition parties are actively criticizing the government's stance.
- State ministers have openly expressed their objections.
- All eyes are on the response from Governor Arlekar.
Thiruvananthapuram, June 25 (NationPress) The ongoing conflict between the Kerala government and Raj Bhavan regarding the display of the 'Bharat Mata' portrait at official events hosted at the Governor’s residence is expected to escalate. The cabinet under Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has resolved to send a formal communication to Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar.
The cabinet has taken this matter seriously and on Wednesday, Chief Minister Vijayan will be drafting an official letter to Arlekar highlighting their disagreement concerning the portrait.
Two state ministers have already voiced their concern about the Bharat Mata image, claiming it resembles one linked to the RSS. However, Governor Arlekar has dismissed these claims, asserting that there is nothing problematic about the image.
The upcoming letter from the Chief Minister will articulate why the portrayal of Bharat Mata used at events in the Governor's residence does not align with constitutionally recognized imagery and, therefore, should not be featured at official government functions.
The initial dissent came from State Agriculture Minister P. Prasad, who publicly criticized the image and opted not to attend the event at the Governor's residence.
Subsequently, State Education Minister V. Sivankutty, during a Scouts and Guides function, conveyed his displeasure in his speech and left the event prematurely. The Raj Bhavan expressed its disappointment, stating that Sivankutty had arrived prepared with a written note and did not wait for the customary National Anthem that concludes the event, mentioning that guests typically depart only after the Governor has exited.
The BJP has aggressively criticized the Vijayan-led Left government and those opposed to it.
The Congress party has also taken a jab at CM Vijayan, questioning his silence on this matter.
With CM Vijayan finally addressing the issue and the letter set to reach Raj Bhavan shortly, all eyes are on Governor Arlekar's forthcoming response.