Nagercoil , 16 August (H.S.)Actor Jagadish praised Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan as a humble and considerate leader, saying he eagerly waits to watch the Chief Minister's weekly press conferences.

Speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration of the Athachamayam procession in Tripunithura, Jagadish described Satheesan's press briefings as both informative and entertaining. He clarified at the outset that he was not seeking any position in the government.

Jagadish said Satheesan's handling of questions from journalists was worth studying. The Chief Minister, he said, presented facts and figures after carefully examining and analysing issues.

Some describe him as daring and diplomatic, while critics may call him dominating. But I would describe him as very down-to-earth, Jagadish said.

Recalling an incident during the Chengannur Assembly by-election, the actor said the candidate had requested him to campaign for an entire day. Jagadish was scheduled to address 42 meetings, but Satheesan, who was overseeing the campaign, reduced the number to 21 or 22 after considering the strain it would place on him.

That was when I realised he was someone who understood the difficulties faced by others, Jagadish said.

The actor suggested that Satheesan's press conferences should be compiled and published, similar to collections of important speeches delivered in the Legislative Assembly. He said the Chief Minister's detailed responses and command over facts made the interactions valuable to the public.

Jagadish maintained that his remarks should not be interpreted as a political endorsement. Describing himself as a politically neutral artist, he said he retained the freedom to appreciate the government when it performed well and criticise it when necessary.

As he did not hold any official position, Jagadish said he could openly point out decisions that went against public interest. He also expressed confidence that Satheesan would take corrective action whenever genuine concerns were brought to his attention.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman