The political atmosphere in Kerala heated up as Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan accused ministers in the Pinarayi Vijayan government of disrespecting Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi during Assembly sessions. The accusations suggested a deliberate effort to appeal to the BJP’s voter base before elections. State Excise Minister M.B. Rajesh faced criticism for reportedly stating that Priyanka Gandhi met the Prime Minister for tea after changes to a rural employment scheme.
Satheesan condemned Rajesh’s remarks as unfounded and inappropriate for a Cabinet minister, asserting that they degraded the political discourse in the Assembly. He also pointed out Rajesh’s previous claims of a close relationship with former Union Minister Anurag Thakur, known for controversial statements during the Delhi riots. Satheesan criticized the contrast between Rajesh’s pride in this association and his criticism of Priyanka Gandhi as hypocritical.
The Leader of Opposition further accused State Education Minister V. Sivankutty and other Cabinet members of frequently making derogatory comments about Sonia Gandhi. Satheesan argued that these actions were not isolated incidents but part of a consistent strategy to incite controversy and divide opinions. He alleged that the repeated attacks on the Gandhi family were a tactical move to align with the BJP and attract its supporters.
Satheesan warned of continuous political campaigns by the Congress to counter what they viewed as “low-level propaganda” by the ruling coalition. He also linked the current controversy to the Sabarimala gold theft case, emphasizing the need for action. The recent exchange of accusations has deepened the political rift in the State, with expectations of heightened confrontations as the Assembly elections approach. Parties are gearing up to solidify their core supporters and sway undecided voters.
