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

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

Synopsis

The clash over the 'Bharat Mata' image at the Governor's residence intensifies as CM Pinarayi Vijayan prepares to send an official letter to Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar. With ministers expressing dissent and the opposition parties weighing in, the political landscape in Kerala is heating up. What will be the outcome of this escalating standoff?

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.

Point of View

It’s essential to recognize the significance of this controversy within the political arena of Kerala. The ongoing dispute over the Bharat Mata image highlights the tensions between the Kerala government and the Raj Bhavan, reflecting broader ideological divides. Our commitment is to provide balanced reporting while considering the diverse perspectives shaping this unfolding story.
NationPress
25/06/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the controversy regarding the Bharat Mata image?
The controversy revolves around the display of the Bharat Mata image at official functions at Raj Bhavan, with objections raised by the Kerala government.
Who is involved in this dispute?
The primary figures in this dispute include Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar, and several state ministers.
What actions have been taken by the ministers?
State ministers have publicly criticized the image, with some refusing to attend events where it was displayed.
What is the political context of this issue?
The issue has drawn criticism from opposition parties, including BJP and Congress, highlighting ideological tensions in Kerala's political landscape.
What can we expect next in this situation?
The upcoming letter from CM Vijayan to Governor Arlekar is expected to clarify the government's stance, with potential implications for future relations between the two offices.