Tensions Rise in Kerala Assembly as CM Vijayan Responds to 'Mr Chief Minister' Remarks
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Synopsis
Tensions escalated in the Kerala Assembly as Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan confronted Ramesh Chennithala over drug issues and student violence, leading to an intense exchange marked by repeated references to 'Mr Chief Minister.' Chennithala's criticism highlights the opposition's concerns regarding the CM's leadership amidst rising challenges.
Key Takeaways
- CM Vijayan faced criticism for drug issues.
- Chennithala's remarks sparked an angry exchange.
- The term ‘Mr Chief Minister’ was central to the debate.
- Violence among students highlighted as a concern.
- Vijayan's leadership questioned by the opposition.
Thiruvananthapuram, March 3 (NationPress) The Kerala Assembly erupted in tension on Monday as Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan clashed verbally with Ramesh Chennithala, a prominent Congress member and former home minister, who leads the opposition.
Following the question hour, Chennithala requested an adjournment motion to address the serious concerns regarding the surge in drug usage and trade in Kerala, along with the escalating violence among students.
While presenting his motion, Chennithala repeatedly referred to Vijayan as ‘Mr Chief Minister’ and criticized him for failing to effectively manage this pressing issue through proper policing. This provoked an angry response from CM Vijayan.
As the debate intensified, Chennithala cited troubling incidents, including the recent suicide of Kannur ADM Naveen Babu and the controversial parole granted to CPI(M) activists involved in the T.P. Chandrasekharan murder case.
“Mr Chief Minister, what’s happening in our state?” Chennithala questioned.
Known for his stern demeanor, CM Vijayan lost his temper as Chennithala continued to use the term ‘Mr. Chief Minister’. Vijayan responded, “There is no need to constantly address me as Mr Chief Minister; instead, focus on understanding the state’s situation.”
Noticing the CM's agitation, Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan interjected, stating, “You are the Chief Minister and also the Home Minister, and we are entitled to our criticism. Why are you so intolerant? We are here to express our views, not just what you want to hear. Addressing you as Mr Chief Minister is not inappropriate,” he asserted.
Chennithala emphasized that using the term Mr Chief Minister is entirely appropriate and does not violate parliamentary decorum.
During CM Vijayan's first term (2016-21), Chennithala was also the leader of opposition, and their debates often became heated. Since Vijayan's second term began in 2021, Satheesan has taken on the role and has kept the CM on edge.
Interestingly, CM Vijayan is seen as an undeniable leader within both the government and the ruling Left Democratic Front, with no dissenting voices emerging against him from within his party or coalition. It is within the Assembly that he faces direct opposition, and as seen on Monday, he often struggles to maintain his composure under pressure.
