Why Did Kerala's Agriculture Minister Skip the Bharat Mata Event?
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Synopsis
In an unexpected turn, Kerala's Agriculture Minister P. Prasad boycotted the World Environment Day event, leading to discontent from Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar. The core issue revolved around the portrayal of Bharat Mata, emblematic of deeper political tensions. What does this mean for Kerala's political landscape?
Key Takeaways
- Governor Arlekar expressed disappointment over the Minister's absence.
- The controversy centers around the portrait of Bharat Mata.
- Minister Prasad cited the portrait's association with the RSS as a reason for his boycott.
- Separate celebrations for World Environment Day were organized.
- Political tensions in Kerala are reflected in this incident.
Thiruvananthapuram, June 6 (NationPress) In a turn of events following the boycott by Kerala Agriculture Minister P. Prasad at the state-level World Environment Day celebrations held at the Raj Bhavan, the official residence of Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar, the Governor expressed his disappointment.
During his speech at the occasion, Arlekar voiced his concerns, stating that the Agriculture Minister should have attended the event.
"The State Education Minister informed us he could not attend. Subsequently, the Agriculture Minister also chose to be absent. I question what pressing matters could have kept him away, especially given his stance on removing Bharat Mata's portrait from the dais," Governor Arlekar remarked.
"I made it clear that while we could accommodate other requests, the portrait of Bharat Mata remains as it represents our core values. Perhaps that is why they opted not to attend," he added.
The contention arose as the Agriculture Minister objected to the display of the Bharat Mata portrait, which he associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
Minister Prasad explained to the media that the event's planning involved discussions with the Governor.
"The arrangements were altered last night, and this was unacceptable to the state government. The portrait displayed was not the traditional one we recognize, but one linked to the RSS. It is inappropriate to exhibit such images, and despite the Governor's refusal to change it, we decided not to participate in the Raj Bhavan event," he stated.
"This is unconstitutional. Since this Governor's tenure began, such alterations have surfaced. We hold the traditional Bharat Mata portrait in high esteem, but not the RSS version," Prasad continued.
On Tuesday evening, officials from the Minister’s office inspected the Central Hall at the Raj Bhavan, where the Bharat Mata portrait was displayed.
Following this inspection, the Minister consulted with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, which led to the decision for Minister Prasad to abstain from the event.
He conveyed to the Raj Bhavan that his attendance depended on the removal of the RSS portrait.
However, Governor Arlekar remained firm that the portrait would stay.
As a result, the state government opted to host a separate function at the Durbar Hall of the State Secretariat for the World Environment Day.
Chief Secretary A. Jayathilak was tasked with organizing an alternative event.
Earlier, two separate state-level functions took place: one led by Governor Arlekar at the Raj Bhavan and another in the Durbar Hall attended by Minister Prasad.
Prasad, a newcomer to the legislative assembly, is affiliated with the Communist Party of India (CPI).
Former Kerala Minister and State CPI Secretary Binoy Viswam criticized the situation, asserting that the RSS version of the Bharat Mata portrait should not be displayed during state functions.
Interestingly, just last month, Governor Arlekar had invited prominent RSS ideologue S. Gurumurthy to speak after the successful Operation Sindoor, prompting Chief Minister Vijayan to express concerns about the Raj Bhavan's association with the RSS.
Point of View
It's crucial to observe that political decisions are often intertwined with cultural symbols. The incident involving the boycott by Kerala's Agriculture Minister highlights the delicate balance between governance and ideological representation. Such events reflect broader societal tensions, but it's essential to approach them with a commitment to unity and mutual respect.
NationPress
07/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason behind the Minister's boycott?
The Minister objected to the display of a Bharat Mata portrait associated with the RSS, which he felt was inappropriate for the event.
What did the Governor say about the situation?
Governor Arlekar expressed his disappointment, stating that the portrait of Bharat Mata would remain and emphasized its significance.
What alternative arrangements were made?
The state government decided to hold a separate event at the Durbar Hall of the State Secretariat to celebrate World Environment Day.
How did this situation reflect on Kerala's political climate?
The incident underscores ongoing tensions between political parties regarding cultural symbols and their representation in state functions.
Who criticized the use of the RSS portrait?
Former Kerala Minister Binoy Viswam criticized the display, stating it should not be part of a state function.
