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Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 30 (IANS) Kerala Education Minister V. Sivankutty has launched a scathing attack on CPI leaders, accusing them of disrespectful conduct and “crossing limits” in their criticism over the PM SHRI school project controversy.
Even after both parties announced a ceasefire over the issue, the minister’s anger signals a fresh fire within the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF).
Shivankutty said CPI leader and state food minister GR Anil had paid a courtesy visit to CPI secretary Binoy Viswam at the party’s state headquarters to brief him on why Kerala had initially agreed to join the central government’s PM SHRI scheme, yet he publicly “insulted” him.
“I had called Anil before leaving for office. Yet, he made derogatory comments in front of the media, even questioning the principle of cabinet responsibility,” Sivankutty said.
He said, “Anil talked as if some unimportant person had come to his office. This shows lack of political culture.”
The minister also targeted CPI national executive member Prakash Babu for allegedly using “highly indecent” language against CPI(M) politburo member MA Baby.
Shivankutty said, “On what basis did he call Baby helpless? He is the general secretary of our party. Such words are unacceptable.”
He also criticized CPI-affiliated student organizations All India Students Federation and All India Youth Federation for “crossing all limits” by burning his effigy twice and protesting outside his house.
He commented, “They also tried to portray me as communal. Those who did this have no idea about my political history.” He further said that Vishwam had later admitted that the protests were wrong.
Sivankutty’s criticism comes soon after Kerala’s decision to stop the PM SHRI project.
Although the state has put further action on hold, the final decision now rests with the Centre. Reacting to the minister’s comment, GR Anil said he was “deeply surprised”.
He said, “We know each other since our student days. I have never used objectionable words about anyone and I am sure Shivankutty knows this.”
–IANS
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