"Everyone Makes Mistakes": CM Satheesan Open to Criticism
Kerala CM VD Satheesan says he is open to criticism after UDF convenor Adoor Prakash raised concerns over government decision-making.
In a significant political development in Kerala, Chief Minister VD Satheesan has responded to the recent friction within the United Democratic Front (UDF). Addressing the media, the Chief Minister stated that he remains open to constructive criticism and is willing to rectify any errors he may have made in his governance or leadership.
Response to Internal Dissent
The Chief Minister's remarks come in the wake of statements made by UDF Convenor Adoor Prakash, who expressed dissatisfaction regarding the way the Kerala government is functioning. Prakash had previously alleged that several key decisions and appointments were being made by the government without proper consultation with the UDF coalition, often becoming known to the front only through media reports.
Responding to these allegations, Satheesan maintained a composed stance. "I am not responding to the allegations made by UDF Convenor Adoor Prakash. It takes two hands to clap," he remarked, emphasizing his loyalty to the party. He further added, "I am not above criticism. Everyone makes mistakes. If they are pointed out, I will correct them."
Satheesan also noted that he maintains a practice of consulting the party on all major policy matters. He asserted that seniority does not exempt anyone from accountability within the party, stating that any member is free to criticize his actions. He pointed out that, to date, the party's High Command has not sought any explanation from him regarding these internal tensions.
Demanding Central Support for Kerala
Shifting the focus to broader governance, the Chief Minister utilized the press conference to urge the Union Government to take notice of Kerala's developmental progress. He called on the Centre to sanction vital infrastructure projects that are essential for the state's growth.
"The Centre should recognise Kerala’s achievements and allocate new projects to the state. That is what the Centre should do," Satheesan said. He specifically highlighted the urgent need for an AIIMS facility in the state to bolster healthcare infrastructure.
Addressing the SIR Issue
The Chief Minister also touched upon the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) issue, defending the state's handling of the process. He claimed that unlike other states where irregularities were reported in regions where the BJP had a chance of winning, no such complaints were raised in Kerala. He credited the UDF for being proactive in filing complaints during that period, noting that neither the BJP nor the CPI(M) had raised objections in the state at that time.
Adoor Prakash to Brief AICC
The tension within the front appears to be escalating, as Adoor Prakash has indicated he will take his grievances to the national level. Speaking in Pathanamthitta, Prakash confirmed his intention to submit a formal opinion to the All India Congress Committee (AICC) within the next two to three days.
Prakash emphasized that his move is an individual decision to express his dissatisfaction with the current decision-making process of the Kerala government. "I am not asking anyone to join me; I will submit my own opinion to the AICC," he stated, signaling a period of introspection for the UDF leadership.