Life Mission: Don’t need Centre’s permission to sign contract with Red Crescent, says CM

Thiruvananthapuram: Chief Minister Pinarayi VIjayan said that central government’s permission was not needed in signing a contract with Emirates Red Crescent.

“Centre’s permission is required for signing a contract with a foreign government or a regional government abroad. But it is learned that such permission is not required in the case of Red Crescent. Centre must be informed about the contract agreement,” the CM said while responding to questions from media.

Earlier, Vikas Swaroop, secretary, Ministry of External Affairs, had informed the parliamentary committee that the MoU was signed by the Kerala government without seeking approval from the Centre.

The Kerala government had signed the memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Red Crescent. They will build an apartment complex at a location chosen by the government. Media has reported about Red Crescent appointing an agency and signing an agreement with them. The government has no role in money being spent in that regard.

The government has certain conditions regarding Life Mission and it has a clear stance on what type of building must be built. It is clear that they have submitted a plan to Life Mission and that has been approved. This is the only connection the government and Life Mission have in the matter, the CM said.

Allegations of bribery in the matter are based on media reports. An investigation can be held only if there is clear information. We can wait for that, Pinarayi Vijayan said in response to questions regarding bribery in the deal.