Kerala CM faces questions within CPM over controversies; MV Govindan brushes off PR agency row

Thiruvananthapuram: In the CPM state committee meeting, questions were reportedly raised against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan over the controversies surrounding the remark about Malappuram and the PR agency issue. The key question raised was about who should take responsibility for the damage caused by the Malappuram remark. It was also asked whether ‘The Hindu’ newspaper's revelations regarding the controversial interview had caused more damage. These questions reflected the growing discontent within the party.

It is learned that the Chief Minister responded by stating that neither he nor the government had assigned any PR agency. He also clarified that actions would be taken against allegations involving the ADGP based on the investigation report.

The meeting concluded that the initial crisis created by P V Anvar’s allegations no longer exists. A demand was raised that the organised attacks against the party and the government should not be taken lightly. Consequently, a decision was made to take the campaign public, with ministers and other members stepping into the forefront.

MV Govindan dismisses PR controversy

In response to the PR agency controversy, CPM state secretary M V Govindan dismissed the issue in front of the media. He mentioned that since the newspaper itself had expressed regret over including incorrect statements in the interview, the issue should have ended. He criticised those who continued to spread confusion by linking the Chief Minister to a PR agency even after his clarification.

The Chief Minister himself stated that the interview was given when Subrahmanian, son of former party MLA Devakumar, asked for it. Govindan did not provide a clear response to the question of whether there would be an investigation or action regarding the incorrect portion written in the Chief Minister’s name.

It is still unclear who wrote it. It was published in an incorrect manner, for which the newspaper has expressed regret. The newspaper’s claim of a PR agency was wrong. The Chief Minister has no connection with any PR agency. When it is stated that what was published is wrong, it should end there.

When asked if what was written in the Chief Minister’s name was incorrect, the response was "If it’s a serious issue, you investigate the matter". He also accused the media of conducting anti-Communist propaganda.