Why is Prajapalana Yogam's Natesan Relentlessly Targeting CPI?
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Synopsis
The ongoing controversy surrounding Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's ride with Vellappally Natesan highlights enduring social discrimination in Kerala. This editorial from Yoganaadam critiques the backlash and addresses the biases against leaders from backward communities, questioning the CPI's current stance on social recognition.
Key Takeaways
- The controversy sheds light on social discrimination in Kerala.
- Yoganaadam critiques the backlash as a reminder of ongoing biases.
- The role of backward communities in political parties is being questioned.
- Public acceptance of leaders from marginalized backgrounds remains a challenge.
- Political leaders must address these social issues responsibly.
Kollam, Jan 2 (NationPress) The mouthpiece of the Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana (SNDP) Yogam, Yoganaadam, has issued a pointed criticism regarding the controversy stemming from Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan offering a ride to Prajapalana Yogam's general secretary, Vellappally Natesan, in his official vehicle. The backlash is seen as a troubling reflection of persistent social discrimination.
Natesan, who holds the position of general secretary for the influential Hindu Ezhava community, has faced backlash not only from the Congress party but also from the CPI, which is the second largest partner in the ruling Left coalition.
In a strongly phrased editorial, the publication asserts that the discussions surrounding the Chief Minister's decision highlight the “twisted and unsightly face of untouchability” that still exists in Kerala, even 78 years post-Independence.
The scorn and negative comments that followed this incident reveal a reluctance to acknowledge the social recognition given to leaders from marginalized communities.
Yoganaadam has also directed its criticism towards the Communist Party of India (CPI), emphasizing that the Ezhava and other disadvantaged communities have long served as the backbone for both the CPI(M) and CPI, yet this historical fact seems to have been overlooked by the current CPI leadership.
The magazine claims that had the individual in the Chief Minister's vehicle belonged to an upper caste or a minority group, the situation would not have escalated into a contentious issue.
The editorial further suggests that there is a concerted effort to depict the act of providing Vellappally Natesan with a lift as something extremely serious, even going as far as labeling it as potentially “treasonous”.
It argues that the pushback originates solely from the involvement of a leader from a backward community, exposing profound social biases.
The Muslim League also faces accusations, with Yoganaadam asserting that the party is fostering ambitions of gaining power by placing the UDF at the forefront and promoting what it calls “religious governance,” a trend supported by recent local election outcomes.
On Thursday, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan reaffirmed that his actions were not inappropriate.
While some factions within the CPI leadership reportedly express discontent, it appears their grievances are more about the Chief Minister's public reaction than the act itself, and they are unlikely to voice this openly.
CPI(M) leaders, on the other hand, have maintained that the Chief Minister's choice was a personal decision.
Point of View
This controversy concerning Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's actions and the ensuing criticism from various political factions underscores the deep-rooted social biases that still permeate our society. As a nation, we must engage in dialogues that foster understanding and acceptance among diverse communities, particularly those historically marginalized. It is crucial for all political leaders to address these issues responsibly and work towards a more inclusive society.
NationPress
02/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the controversy involving Vellappally Natesan?
The controversy began when Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan offered a ride to Vellappally Natesan in his official car, leading to backlash highlighting social discrimination.
How has Yoganaadam responded to the situation?
Yoganaadam has criticized the backlash as a reflection of entrenched social discrimination and emphasized the need for recognizing leaders from backward communities.
What does the editorial suggest about the CPI's leadership?
The editorial suggests that the CPI's leadership has forgotten the historical support from backward communities, which have traditionally been vital to the party's foundation.
What was Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's stance on the criticism?
Chief Minister Vijayan has reiterated that there was nothing inappropriate about his action of offering Natesan a lift.
What implications does this incident have for social recognition?
The incident raises critical questions about societal acceptance and recognition of leaders from marginalized backgrounds, reflecting ongoing social biases.
