New Kerala Governor Embraces Collaborative Spirit, Hosts CM Vijayan and FM Sitharaman in Delhi
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Synopsis
On March 12, Kerala's new Governor Rajendra Viswanath Arlekar and CM Pinarayi Vijayan welcomed Union FM Nirmala Sitharaman in Delhi, signifying a fresh start after Governor Khan's departure. The meeting emphasized unity and collaboration for Kerala's development.
Key Takeaways
- New Governor Rajendra Viswanath Arlekar initiates collaborative efforts.
- Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan emphasizes a positive change.
- Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman joins discussions at Kerala House.
- Former Congress leader K.V. Thomas represents Kerala in Delhi.
- Cordial atmosphere contrasts with previous tensions.
New Delhi/Thiruvananthapuram, March 12 (NationPress) Following the departure of Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, Kerala is witnessing a new chapter with the appointment of Governor Rajendra Viswanath Arlekar. On Wednesday morning, he and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan warmly welcomed Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman at Kerala House in Delhi.
In attendance was Kerala’s representative in Delhi, former Congress leader and ex-Union Minister K.V. Thomas.
After a breakfast meeting, Sitharaman took to social media platform X to share a photo from the courtesy visit.
The friendly gathering followed a dinner hosted by Arlekar on Tuesday night for Vijayan and all Kerala MPs. Emphasizing unity for Kerala’s progress, Arlekar stated, “Beyond political differences, I urge all MPs from Kerala to work together in the state’s interest. I understand Kerala’s needs and will collaborate with the CM to highlight them before the Centre.”
Vijayan welcomed the Governor's approach, saying, “It’s encouraging to see the Governor become part of Team Kerala. Let this mark a new beginning for all of us.”
In a post on X, CM Vijayan stated, “Had a warm interaction with Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs @nsitharaman, in the presence of @KeralaGovernor, at Kerala House in New Delhi. Kerala’s Special Representative in Delhi, Prof KV Thomas, also attended the meeting.”
Thiruvananthapuram Congress MP Shashi Tharoor praised Arlekar’s initiative, noting on X: “Greatly appreciate the gesture of @KeralaGovernor Rajendra Arlekar in hosting all Kerala MPs for a dinner discussion on the state’s challenges and the need for collective action. @CMOKerala @pinarayivijayan also attended and spoke briefly. This unusual gesture augurs well for our combined efforts to develop the state, beyond our political differences.”
The warm atmosphere is a stark contrast to the previously strained relationship between former Governor Khan and CM Vijayan. During Khan’s tenure, public tensions often escalated, with the two leaders rarely acknowledging each other, even on shared platforms.
A notable indicator of their frosty relationship was the lack of a customary farewell for Khan; neither Vijayan nor his cabinet members formally visited him prior to his departure to Bihar. However, Vijayan notably shortened a media briefing to personally greet the new Governor, Arlekar, indicating a shift towards a more collaborative dynamic.
