Thiruvananthapuram: Congratulating Alphons Kannanthanam, Chief Minister Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan said that as a union minister, he would take up the state’s concerns at the union cabinet effectively.
“Congratulations to all the newly sworn in central ministers especially longtime friend Alphons Kannanthanam. It is a perfect Onam gift for him. I wish him all the best and hope that along with his national-level responsibilities, he will also be a voice for Kerala’s concerns in the cabinet.”
“Parallel efforts from both the centre and state will certainly ensure successful development of Kerala. Hope Mr. Kannanthanam will work for the same,” said the Chief Minister in a Facebook post.
Mr. Kannanthanam told the media in Delhi that his elevation as a minister was indeed a recognition for the state. He also added that he was selected as a minister not because he was a Christian. “Christians are also Indians and it is very important that they are also taken along in the process of development,” he said.
Meanwhile, Opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala said that the state might not get much benefit from the elevation of Mr. Kannanthanam as a Minister. “I don't think such efforts would help the BJP save its face in Kerala. Even as we are happy that one of our friends is becoming a minister, the BJP leaders in the state do not seem to be so happy,” Mr. Chennithala said.
