LDF Step Up Attack on VD Satheesan After UDF Convenor Alleges Unilateralism
CPI(M) state secretary MV Govindan told reporters in Palakkad that the UDF was in "complete disarray", with its own convenor admitting that decisions were being taken without consultation
Thiruvananthapuram: The CPI(M) and the LDF have intensified their attack on Chief Minister VD Satheesan after UDF convenor Adoor Prakash alleged that key decisions were being taken without consulting alliance partners.
CPI(M) leaders cited Prakash's remarks as evidence of differences within the UDF and alleged that Satheesan was taking unilateral decisions after consulting the BJP.
Prakash had said at a press conference on Thursday that key decisions were being taken without consultation, UDF meetings were not being convened, and he was learning about important developments through the media.
In retaliation, BJP and Yuva Morcha activists have been staging black-flag protests against Keralam ministers across the state.
Prakash's remarks have triggered further reactions within the Congress and the UDF, with some leaders backing his call for greater consultation.
CPI(M) state secretary MV Govindan told reporters in Palakkad that the UDF was in "complete disarray", with its own convenor admitting that decisions were being taken without consultation.
"The UDF Convenor himself clearly explained that nothing is being consulted with him, and there is no collective discussion," Govindan said.
He said several Congress leaders were in a similar situation and claimed that the developments indicated a major split within the Congress and the UDF.
Govindan alleged that several leaders had expressed support for Adoor Prakash, while only a few had taken positions favourable to Satheesan.
He further alleged that some decisions were being taken under sponsorship, referring to chartered flights and foreign trips, and claimed that the Chief Minister was functioning in favour of the RSS, BJP and Sangh Parivar.
LDF convenor T P Ramakrishnan, also speaking to reporters in Palakkad, said Prakash's remarks had exposed the lack of collective decision-making within the UDF.
"The CM of Keralam is taking a unilateral stance. Matters that need to be discussed within the UDF are not being subjected to discussion there," he said.
Ramakrishnan said several Congress leaders and UDF constituents had responded to Prakash's remarks, while demands for changes in the alliance leadership had gained momentum.
He questioned the Congress leadership's position on the developments and sought clarity from the party high command and the KPCC.
Ramakrishnan raised the issue of Satheesan's chartered flight journey to Mangaluru before he became CM, alleging that he had held discussions with BJP leaders and representatives of the Adani Group during the trip.
He alleged that the government had failed to address people's livelihood issues and pointed to the return of power cuts and load shedding.
He claimed that the previous government had ensured uninterrupted electricity supply even during disasters and power crises.
Ramakrishnan said the government had also fallen behind in fulfilling its promises and responsibilities towards the people.
CPI(M) leader and former CM Pinarayi Vijayan, addressing the inauguration of an extended district committee meeting in Malappuram, described Prakash's remarks as serious.
He said the developments indicated a breakdown in the functioning of the UDF and alleged that the identity of Keralam was being undermined.
"Even a section of those leading the government is saying this. It cannot go on like this," the LoP said.
