Thiruvananthapuram, 03 Oct (H.S.): The Congress high command is preparing to intervene in differences within Kerala’s ruling UDF after convenor Adoor Prakash publicly criticised Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan’s functioning, prompting calls for greater consultation within the coalition.

AICC general secretary K.C. Venugopal said the leadership would initiate discussions to resolve disagreements, signalling a departure from its largely hands-off approach during the government’s initial months.

“The party has an established mechanism to discuss and resolve internal issues. Differences will be settled through dialogue, and the leadership will take the initiative,” he told reporters.

Venugopal rejected reports suggesting that Prakash had acted at his instigation. Distancing himself from the controversy, he questioned attempts to link him to another leader’s personal views and said he had made no statement against the government.

Prakash, however, stood by his criticism despite receiving no public endorsement from other leaders or coalition partners. He claimed several Congress and allied party leaders had telephoned him to express solidarity.

Asked why he addressed a press conference instead of approaching the AICC directly, Prakash said he had a specific reason but would disclose it later.

Congress leaders A.P. Anilkumar and Rajmohan Unnithan criticised his decision to air the dispute publicly. KPCC president Sunny Joseph said the AICC would take an appropriate decision.

Muslim League general secretary and minister P.K. Kunhalikutty said bilateral discussions with coalition partners were held regularly. He expressed confidence that complaints would subside once appointments to boards and corporations were completed.

Kerala Congress leader and minister Mons Joseph sought adequate coalition consultations and due consideration for party chairman P.J. Joseph. RSP leader Shibu Baby John declined comment.

Satheesan has adopted a wait-and-watch approach. Sources close to him welcomed the restrained response from major allies and expect the high command to give considerable weight to the Muslim League’s position during discussions.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman