Is Kerala CPI’s Opposition to PM SHRI Just Political Drama?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Former Kerala BJP state leader K. Surendran claims the CPI's opposition to the PM SHRI scheme is mere political theatrics, igniting discussions on the significance of party alliances and state control in education. This ongoing tension signals potential shifts in Kerala's political landscape amidst the unfolding controversy.
Key Takeaways
- CPI's opposition to PM SHRI viewed as political theatrics.
- PM SHRI scheme aims to transform schools into model institutions.
- Concerns raised about state control in education.
- Potential funding of Rs 1,500 crore for Kerala's education sector.
- Political dynamics within the ruling coalition are complex.
Kozhikode, Oct 20 (NationPress) Former Kerala BJP state president K. Surendran has described the Communist Party of India’s (CPI) resistance to the PM SHRI scheme as “simple political theatrics”.
The CPI stands as the second-largest ally within the ruling Left government in Kerala.
Surendran criticized CPI state secretary Binoy Viswam, suggesting that he routinely raises objections to significant issues but eventually conforms to the directives of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) CPI-M leadership.
“When CM Pinarayi Vijayan sends a signal from the AKG Centre, all dissent vanishes,” Surendran stated.
He asserted that the CPI has diminished in significance within Kerala's political landscape, comparing the current leadership unfavorably to the party's more robust days under figures like Veliyam Bhargavan.
This controversy arose after the Kerala General Education Department opted to engage with the PM SHRI scheme, which aims to enhance existing government schools into model institutions with federal support.
Approximately Rs 1,500 crore is anticipated to flow into this scheme from the Centre.
The CPI raised concerns, fearing a potential erosion of state authority in education.
In light of these objections, the state Cabinet had previously postponed the decision to implement the scheme, but State Education Minister V. Sivankutty later confirmed that they will proceed with the PM SHRI program.
Surendran accused the CPI of orchestrating a “staged protest” and predicted they would ultimately back the government's decision.
The PM SHRI scheme, initiated by the Centre in 2022, aims to transform over 14,500 schools across the nation into ‘model schools’.
In Kerala, around 250 schools qualify for inclusion in this initiative.
Surendran’s comments emerge amidst renewed tensions between the CPI and CPI-M regarding policy matters, although this discord is unlikely to disrupt the ruling coalition’s stability.
CPI-M legislator and Left Democratic Front convenor T.P. Ramakrishnan, however, played down the CPI's opposition, asserting that all issues will be settled. Meanwhile, State Congress president Sunny Joseph alleged that the relationship between CPI-M and BJP has been fully revealed, citing recent policy decisions in the state.
Commenting on the developments regarding the scheme's implementation, Joseph noted that the decision to launch the program without discussion within the LDF or even the state Cabinet indicates a definite political alignment.
“The connection between CPI-M and BJP has come to light. Executing the PM SHRI scheme without adequate consultation within the LDF or the Cabinet is part of that broader agenda,” he remarked.
Point of View
It is vital to analyze both sides of the political landscape in Kerala, particularly the ongoing conflict between the CPI and CPI-M. While Surendran’s claims highlight potential fractures within the ruling coalition, it’s essential to recognize that political maneuvering is not uncommon in such alliances. The focus should remain on the implications for education and governance rather than on mere political theatrics.
NationPress
20/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PM SHRI scheme?
The PM SHRI scheme, launched by the Centre in 2022, aims to upgrade existing government schools into model institutions with central assistance, enhancing educational infrastructure across India.
Why did the CPI oppose the PM SHRI scheme?
The CPI raised concerns about the potential erosion of state control over education, fearing that federal involvement could undermine local governance in educational matters.
What are the financial implications of the PM SHRI scheme for Kerala?
The scheme is expected to bring in around Rs 1,500 crore from the Centre to improve educational facilities in the state.
How many schools in Kerala are eligible for the PM SHRI scheme?
Approximately 250 schools in Kerala qualify for inclusion under the PM SHRI initiative.
What does Surendran's remarks indicate about the CPI's political standing?
Surendran's comments suggest that he believes the CPI is losing its relevance in Kerala politics and is merely responding to directives from CPI-M leadership.
