CPI(M) leader and former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday accused Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar of attempting to run a “parallel administration” by convening meetings with state government officials. The remarks come amid an escalating political row in Kerala over the Governor’s recent administrative engagements.
Vijayan said the Governor’s decision to hold meetings with various departments ahead of International Yoga Day was against established democratic norms and constitutional conventions. He termed the move “very serious,” alleging that it amounted to overstepping the constitutional limits of the gubernatorial office.
He further questioned the silence of the state government on the issue, asserting that the Chief Minister and administration were responsible for protecting the authority and dignity of the elected government. According to Vijayan, allowing such interventions could set a “dangerous precedent” in the functioning of a parliamentary democracy.
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Recalling earlier disputes, Vijayan pointed out that similar tensions had arisen in 2024 when the then Governor had sought reports from the Chief Secretary and State Police Chief, which the previous Left government had strongly opposed. He suggested that such actions reflect a continued pattern of administrative overreach by Raj Bhavan.
Apart from the Governor issue, Vijayan also criticised the ruling UDF government over its decision to proceed with the Centre’s PM-SHRI education scheme. He alleged inconsistency in the Congress and IUML’s stance, claiming that they had earlier opposed the programme but were now moving forward with its implementation.
He clarified that while the previous Left government had signed an MoU with the Centre due to financial constraints, the agreement was later put in abeyance, arguing that signing an MoU does not automatically imply full implementation. He also cited examples from other states, including Punjab, to support his position.
Vijayan further raised concerns over Kerala’s public health system, alleging shortages of medicines and staff despite rising cases of communicable diseases. He claimed that nearly 400 doctors cleared by the Public Service Commission were still awaiting appointment, calling for urgent action to strengthen healthcare infrastructure in the state.
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