Why Kerala CM-designate VD Satheesan’s car-seat choice is becoming a political talking point

Thiruvananthapuram: As V D Satheesan prepares to take oath as the next Chief Minister of Kerala, an unusual discussion has emerged around his personal travel style and whether it will continue after assuming office.

Unlike most former chief ministers, Satheesan is known for frequently travelling in the front passenger seat of his vehicle instead of occupying the rear “captain’s seat” generally reserved for VVIPs.

Even after being chosen as Chief Minister-designate, Satheesan reportedly continued his front-seat travel pattern during visits to senior leaders including A K Antony and V M Sudheeran.

According to reports, he also travelled in the front seat during his journey from Aluva to Thiruvananthapuram following the Chief Ministerial announcement. Political observers say the habit developed partly because Satheesan often travels with party leaders and close associates, making the rear seat crowded during discussions and political meetings inside the vehicle.

Security protocol concerns

However, officials may object to the practice once he formally assumes office due to VVIP security norms.

In most official VVIP convoys, the front passenger seat is usually occupied by a security gunman, while the Chief Minister sits in the protected rear section of the vehicle.

Former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan reportedly preferred the left-side captain’s seat in vehicles such as the Innova Crysta and usually travelled only with close security staff and aides.

If Satheesan continues allowing political colleagues inside the official State Number-1 vehicle for discussions, police and security agencies could raise concerns regarding safety arrangements.

Meanwhile, the Tourism Department has arranged 25 Innova vehicles for the incoming Chief Minister and cabinet ministers. Officials said the vehicles are not new purchases. Most are existing vehicles previously used by ministers and have been repaired and prepared for reuse amid the state’s financial constraints.

Reports also stated that several Innova Crysta vehicles earlier used by High Court judges were handed over to the Tourism Department for VVIP and state guest purposes.

The developments come as Satheesan has already signalled a cost-cutting approach for the new government.

He recently stated that the government would avoid unnecessary expenditure, reduce convoy size and refrain from purchasing new vehicles for ministers wherever possible.