Thiruvananthapuram: Former minister and CPM leader V. Sivankutty has criticised Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan for attending an event hosted by a Youth League leader in Malappuram while the state was facing rain-related distress and flooding.

Sivankutty alleged that while people were living in fear and uncertainty due to the weather situation, the Chief Minister was prioritising personal engagements over urgent official responsibilities. He said such an approach was not appropriate for someone holding the position of Chief Minister.

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In a Facebook post, Sivankutty compared Satheesan's actions to "Nero playing the fiddle while Rome burned", saying that a leader should directly oversee disaster management efforts during times of crisis.

"At a time when the state is facing a disaster situation, the Chief Minister's decision to stay away from responsibilities is a challenge to the people," Sivankutty wrote. He said the priority of a leader during such situations should be to provide confidence to people through active involvement and determination.

Sivankutty pointed out that, as the head of the State Disaster Management Authority, the Chief Minister should take charge of relief and rescue operations. However, he alleged that Satheesan attended a grand reception at the residence of a Youth League leader in Ponnani instead of focusing on urgent duties.

Sivankutty also referred to the leadership of former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan during the two major floods and the COVID-19 pandemic, saying Kerala had witnessed a leader who stood with the people during crises. He urged V.D. Satheesan to follow that example and show stronger leadership.