Kerala CM Vijayan Denies Congress' Claims on SDPI Allegations
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Thiruvananthapuram, March 31 (NationPress) Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan categorically dismissed claims regarding ties with the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI), labeling them as “utterly unfounded” and driven by political motives.
He clarified that there has been no request for support from the SDPI, nor any mutual understanding with the group.
In a media briefing, the Chief Minister commented on the stability in Nemom, refuting comparisons to the 2021 Assembly elections.
“Though some individuals believe the Left Democratic Front (LDF) is well-positioned to challenge the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), that should not be interpreted as a political alliance,” he stated.
Reinforcing the ideological stance of the LDF, CM Vijayan emphasized the coalition's “clear and steadfast anti-communal position”.
He also addressed the recent media scrutiny following an event in Kollam, where his interactions faced backlash.
Vijayan explained that while he typically engages for 30 to 40 minutes, the constraints of the election period necessitate shorter sessions.
“The choice of questioners is not mine; it’s up to the journalists,” he remarked.
Despite criticism of his approach on Monday, which he defended as consistent with his usual practice, Vijayan stated he left only after the designated time was over, but returned to clarify after a disturbance occurred.
He accused certain individuals of arriving with the intent to disrupt, suggesting that such incidents can lead to “intentional misrepresentation” of events.
Focusing on his government’s development agenda, the Chief Minister hailed the Vizhinjam Port project as a “shining example” of Kerala’s progress.
He highlighted its potential within the transshipment sector and noted that all four phases are expected to be completed by 2028.
The port has already accrued Rs 125 crore in revenue.
In response to comments made by Rahul Gandhi, who performed a viral parody song at an election rally in Pathanamthitta, Vijayan remarked, “Everyone saw where the individual ended up,” referring to the prime accused Unnikrishnan Potti’s alleged meeting with Sonia Gandhi in Delhi, without providing further details.
As part of his campaign, Vijayan has been engaging with the media daily, traversing Kerala in preparation for the upcoming elections.
The state is set to hold elections on April 9 to select 140 legislators, with results expected on May 4.