Thrissur: In connection with the controversy over the BJP-backed power formation in Mattathur panchayat, Congress leader Joseph Tajet said he had merely discharged his responsibilities as DCC president. He stated that he only carried out the task entrusted to him by the party and did not wish to enter into controversies. The party’s position was clarified and steps were taken accordingly, and further action would be pursued under the anti-defection law, he told reporters.

He also said that the resignation letters claimed to have been submitted by the rebels had not been received. There are several doubts surrounding the issue, he added. Those who have objections to the DCC president’s actions are free to approach higher party forums, which is their right under the party system. He reiterated that he had only fulfilled his duties as president.

Meanwhile, rebel leaders in Mattathur maintained they were ready to resign from the panchayat if their demands were accepted. Rebel leader T N Chandran said they had been able to convince the KPCC president that there were lapses on the part of the DCC chief. They would accept whatever decision the party takes, but decisions should not be unilateral. If their demands are accepted, they would resign immediately, Chandran said.

He added that the issues had been clearly explained to Roji M John as well. According to him, the developments in Mattathur stemmed from long-standing factionalism and certain unhealthy practices within the party. These matters had been conveyed to the leadership, which had indicated that discussions and appropriate action would follow. Chandran said the rebels had informed the party that they were prepared to abide by all party decisions if the leadership adopted a constructive approach.

The rebels have taken the position that even if they resign, the panchayat president will not step down, as President Tessy Jose Kallarackal was elected as an independent and therefore cannot be compelled by the party to resign. This is being used as a tactical move by the rebels. However, the vice-president, who contested on the party symbol, would resign. As a result, the governing committee would continue and the president would remain in office. Even if support is withdrawn, it would take at least six months to remove the president from office.

As directed by the KPCC, discussions were held with MLA Roji M John in Angamaly. During the talks, the rebels stated that no agreement had been made with the BJP. The Congress position is that no relationship with the BJP will be accepted. In Mattathur, the LDF had been in power continuously for 22 years, with Congress winning only once. Hence, there is support among Congress workers and sympathisers to keep the CPM out of power.