No local holiday declared for Champakulam Moolam Boat Race amid CM mic row

Alappuzha: The Kerala government did not declare a local holiday for the annual Champakulam Moolam Boat Race on Monday, despite a political controversy over an alleged open-mic remark by Chief Minister V D Satheesan after a request for a holiday was raised in the Assembly.

The Champakulam Moolam Boat Race, held on the Pampa River in Alappuzha district, marks the beginning of Kerala's traditional boat race season. The event features the state's iconic snake boats, with seven taking part in this year's race, which began at 3 pm. Cultural Affairs Minister P C Vishnunadh inaugurated the event.

The issue gained political attention after Kuttanad MLA Reji Cheriyan of the Kerala Congress (Joseph), a constituent of the ruling UDF, requested a local holiday in Kuttanad taluk for the annual race.

Responding in the Assembly, the Chief Minister said the government would consider the request. However, moments later, after taking his seat, Satheesan was allegedly heard on an open microphone saying, "under no circumstances will it be granted."

The remark, captured on video and widely circulated on social media by LDF legislators, sparked a political controversy.

Despite the request, the Alappuzha district administration did not announce a local holiday.

Speaking to reporters, Cheriyan said he had expected the holiday to be declared until the last moment, as the boat race is Kuttanad's biggest cultural event.

He said that although no holiday had been announced, people were celebrating the race in a festive spirit.

"Let us try harder next year. There will be a holiday for the Moolam Boat Race next year," he said.

Cheriyan also said there was no doubt that the Chief Minister's alleged remark had hurt the sentiments of the people of Kuttanad.

"However, the issue will end once he explains the circumstances in which he made the remark. Everyone is saddened, and so am I. It was my first submission in the Assembly," he said.

The MLA added that he intended to seek an explanation directly from the Chief Minister.

"We will meet on Tuesday, and the matter will be resolved within one minute of discussion," he said.

(PTI)