Thiruvananthapuram, 31 Dec (HS):SNDP Yogam General Secretary Vellappally Natesan on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the Communist Party of India (CPI) for criticising Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan following the Left’s setback in the recent local body elections, accusing the party of political opportunism and betrayal.
Speaking to reporters, Vellappally described the CPI as “traitors”, alleging that the party had enjoyed the benefits of power for a decade under the Left Democratic Front (LDF) before turning against the Chief Minister. “After enjoying power and privileges for ten years, they are now distancing themselves. If there are differences, they should be raised within the party framework,” he said.
Defending the Pinarayi Vijayan government, Vellappally asserted that Kerala had remained free from major communal violence during its tenure. “In the last ten years, has there been even one Marad-like communal riot? That alone speaks volumes. There are forces trying to provoke communal clashes now, but the government has ensured peace,” he said.
Referring to the ongoing gold smuggling case, Vellappally said anyone involved in wrongdoing must face the consequences. “Whoever committed the crime should be punished. What more can the Chief Minister do beyond acting as per court directions? Those who committed crimes will pay for them,” he said, reiterating his confidence that the Pinarayi Vijayan-led government would return to power.
Vellappally also reacted sharply to questions regarding his controversial remarks about Malappuram district. When asked about his earlier statement that permissions were not being granted to start educational institutions in the region, he responded, “Is it not true that we do not have institutions there? In Malappuram, Wayanad and Kasaragod, do we have institutions? We have land, but permissions are not being given.”
When journalists pointed out that the present government was also led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Vellappally said that previous governments were responsible for denying approvals. As reporters persisted, noting that the Left government has been in power for nearly a decade, he lost his temper, struck the microphone, and walked away from the interaction.
The remarks have sparked fresh political debate, coming at a time when tensions within the ruling alliance and criticism over governance issues are intensifying.
Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
