UDF government implementing Sangh Parivar agenda: M.V. Govindan

M.V. Govindan

CPI(M) State secretary M.V. Govindan launched a sharp attack on the UDF government, alleging that it has become an instrument for implementing the Sangh Parivar agenda and that infighting within the ruling front was worsening even before it completed six months in office. Addressing a press conference in Thrissur on Sunday, Mr. Govindan said the Congress-led coalition was consumed by internal conflicts and the government was pushing people’s lives into distress .

Demanding a judicial inquiry into the controversial power purchase, he alleged that the government had procured an additional 200 MW of electricity in October at higher rates without the requisite approval or tender process. He also claimed that differences between the Chief Minister and the Electricity Minister over the deal had spilled into the open, undermining the principle of collective responsibility of the Cabinet. “This is a major corruption issue. Every file relating to the deal should be made available for public scrutiny. We stand firm on our demand for a judicial inquiry,” he said.

Mr. Govindan also accused the government of facilitating the Sangh Parivar’s intervention in the education sector. Referring to Mayilpeeli, a publication associated with Balagokulam, he alleged that the government was providing the Sangh Parivar with an opportunity to expand its influence in education. “Keralam is now being governed by a UDF government that functions under the BJP’s influence,” he charged.

The CPI(M) leader also criticised Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan and other UDF leaders for allegedly ignoring the ongoing protest by LPST (Lower Primary School Teacher) job aspirants. He recalled that Mr. Satheesan, then the Leader of the Opposition, had visited the protest venue during the previous LDF government’s tenure and promised to resolve the issue within a week if the UDF came to power. “Now, there is nobody to even look at the protesters,” he said, urging the government to intervene urgently. He expressed concern over reports that the health condition of protester Valarmathi was critical.

Accusing the Chief Minister of making misleading statements at every press conference, Mr. Govindan also questioned the government’s decision to purchase 21 vehicles, describing it as another instance of administrative ineptitude. He termed the Special Investigation Team’s proceedings in certain cases, including the investigation against a former Sports Minister, as absurd and politically questionable.