Did BJP Criticize CM Vijayan and LoP Satheesan for Ignoring Former President KR Narayanan?
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Synopsis
Former Union Minister V. Muraleedharan sharply criticized Kerala's Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition for their absence at the unveiling of K.R. Narayanan's statue. This incident raises questions about respect for the Dalit community and the commitment of political leaders to social justice. Explore the implications of this notable event.
Key Takeaways
- Muraleedharan criticizes absence of leaders.
- Statue honors K.R. Narayanan's legacy.
- Calls for apology to Dalit community.
- Highlights issues of social justice.
- Reflects on political commitment to inclusivity.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 23 (NationPress) Former Union Minister and senior BJP figure V. Muraleedharan expressed strong disapproval regarding the absence of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan at the ceremony commemorating the unveiling of the statue of former President K.R. Narayanan.
The statue was inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday at the Kerala Raj Bhavan, the official residence of the Governor.
Muraleedharan stated that their absence was not just a sign of disrespect towards the former President and the current President, but also an affront to the Dalit community.
"The President’s visit to Kerala was pre-scheduled, and the Chief Minister could have rearranged his foreign trip accordingly. Satheesan, who was present in Thiruvananthapuram and received an invitation, chose to skip the event,” Muraleedharan remarked.
“The Congress party has consistently opposed the interests of the backward classes. The nation has not forgotten Sonia Gandhi’s disrespect towards President Droupadi Murmu. Is the stance of the Chief Minister and the opposition leader towards our nation’s first citizens, who belong to the Dalit community, an indication of their beliefs?” he questioned.
Muraleedharan also called for an apology from the Chief Minister and the Leader of Opposition to the Dalit community for this unfortunate incident, highlighting that it concerns both national and social respect.
K.R. Narayanan (1920–2005) served as India’s 10th President and was the first Dalit to occupy the top Constitutional position in the country.
Born in Kerala, he overcame humble beginnings to become a respected diplomat, with notable ambassadorial roles in the US and China.
After being elected as Vice President in 1992, he assumed the presidency in 1997, earning admiration for his integrity, humility, and dedication to social justice.
Renowned for his moral courage, he often addressed issues of inequality, human rights, and government accountability, embodying the Constitutional values with both authority and empathy.
Point of View
It's crucial to highlight that political events often reflect deeper societal issues. The absence of key leaders at a significant ceremony dedicated to a Dalit icon raises questions about their commitment to inclusivity. We must strive to address these concerns while ensuring that all voices are heard in the national conversation.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the statue of K.R. Narayanan unveiled?
The statue was unveiled to honor K.R. Narayanan, India’s 10th President and the first Dalit to hold this position, recognizing his contributions to the nation.
What was the reaction of the BJP leader regarding the absence of CM Vijayan?
V. Muraleedharan criticized CM Vijayan for not attending the ceremony, viewing it as a sign of disrespect towards both K.R. Narayanan and the Dalit community.
What are the implications of the leaders' absence?
The absence of these leaders at a significant event raises concerns about their commitment to social justice and respect for marginalized communities.
Who is K.R. Narayanan?
K.R. Narayanan was India’s 10th President, serving from 1997 to 2002, and was the first Dalit to hold the highest constitutional office in the country.
What does this incident signify for the Dalit community?
This incident highlights ongoing challenges regarding representation and respect for the Dalit community in India's political landscape.
