Pinarayi rejects CPI’s deputy leader demand in Kerala Assembly, says post will go to CPM

Thrissur: Leader of Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan has rejected the CPI’s demand for the deputy leader’s post in the Kerala Assembly, making it clear that the position will go to a CPM leader.

Vijayan also criticised the UDF government over rising prices of essential commodities during the Onam season and questioned its handling of the state’s finances.

Deputy leader post to go to CPM

The CPI, the second-largest constituent of the opposition Left Democratic Front (LDF), has repeatedly demanded the deputy leader’s post in the Assembly.

Responding to questions about the demand, Vijayan said the appointment only required him to send a letter to the Assembly Speaker. He made it clear that the letter would carry the name of a CPM leader.

“Once the letter is given as directed by the Assembly Speaker, the deputy assembly leader will be appointed. There is no doubt that the name written in that letter will be that of a CPM leader,” he said.

Asked about the CPI’s position, Vijayan said the party would eventually be convinced.
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Vijayan attacks UDF over Onam prices

Vijayan also accused the UDF government of failing to take effective measures to control the rising prices of essential commodities during the Onam season.

He claimed that the prices of rice, sugar, vegetables, coconut oil and fruits had increased sharply. According to Vijayan, the price of rice alone had risen by more than ₹15 per kg.

He recalled that the previous LDF government had maintained the prices of 13 essential commodities sold through Supplyco without an increase since 2016, apart from nominal changes towards the end of its second term.

Vijayan alleged that market intervention through Supplyco and ration shops had now become ineffective.

He also pointed to the role of Horticorp, saying vegetables were earlier procured and distributed through the agency but that system had since been discontinued.

“I had expected the government to at least intervene effectively during the Onam season, but that expectation has been proved wrong,” Vijayan said.
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Questions government’s financial claims

Vijayan also questioned Chief Minister V D Satheesan’s earlier claim that the state’s financial situation would improve within three months of the new government taking office.

He recalled that the then Opposition had criticised the LDF government over borrowing, attributing it to financial indiscipline and extravagance.

Vijayan asked whether the present government was now borrowing for the same reasons and called on the Chief Minister to clarify its position.

He said the LDF government had sought to improve its finances by increasing tax revenue through financial management.

Vijayan also alleged that the then Opposition had focused on the government’s borrowings while ignoring the development achieved during its tenure.

Vijayan accuses Governor of ‘unconstitutional’ actions

Vijayan also criticised Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar over his actions, including summoning the Director General of Police (DGP) and appointing Vice-Chancellors at his discretion.

He termed the Governor’s actions “unconstitutional” and said governments had a responsibility to strongly respond when constitutional authorities acted beyond their powers.

Vijayan said the previous LDF government had strongly opposed what it considered interference by the Governor in the powers of the state government.

He alleged that the present UDF government, in contrast, was repeatedly showing allegiance to the Sangh Parivar and failing to take a strong stand against such actions.