KOZHIKODE: Amid speculations over new ministers from the district, citizens and trade and industry bodies highlighted the need for active and able personalities in the Cabinet who can address many issues they face. Though the CPM state leadership has cleared the name of former CPM district secretary T.P. Ramakrishnan, A. Pradeep Kumar and VKC Mammed Koya did not figure on the list.
ANGELS executive director Dr P.P. Venugopal said many were expecting Mr Kumar to be there. “There will not be any question regarding his commitment and experience as a legislator,” he said. “In many forums during the election campaign, he was projected as the education minister considering his innovative contributions in upgrading government schools to international standards with the support from individuals.”
As a senior leader from the region, they were expecting Mr Ramakrishnan on the list. The name of Mr Koya was doing the rounds for industries. But he made it clear that he was not there for any ministerial berth and requested the leadership to exempt him from such responsibilities considering health issues.
Calicut Development Council chairman C.E. Chakkunny said the traders believe the new government would take a practical approach to the tax collection. “We need a government with a fraternal approach to trade and industry,” he told DC. "Rather than imposing new taxes, tax evaders should be caught."
Malabar Chamber of Commerce former president Alok Kumar Sabu said the left might send a positive message to promote the industry. “Normally when the left come to power, the industry would be apprehensive but this time, the mandate is stronger and it is the time the left can send a positive message to make the state industry-friendly," he told Deccan Chronicle.
