CPM-BJP unholy deal evident in Ettumanoor: Ramesh Chennithala

Kochi: There is an unholy political deal between CPM and BJP aimed at ensuring continuity of rule and also wins for BJP, alleged Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala on Monday.Speaking to the media in Kochi, Chennithala said the deal was "evident" in Ettumanoor and Palakkad constituencies, going by the candidates NDA fielded. "BJP has handed over seats to its new ally Twenty20 as part of this alliance with CPM in Ettumanoor. People will realise that every vote given to BJP is to help Pinarayi Vijayan."He accused govt of deceiving devotees on Sabarimala issue. "Will Vijayan tender an apology to devotees on his earlier stance that women of menstrual age must be permitted into Sabarimala temple?" he asked. Govt's recent written submissions before Supreme Court lacked clarity on its position on the issue, he said.Left govt exerted pressure on the special investigation team (SIT) probing Sabarimala gold theft case. Chennithala said SIT's failure to submit chargesheet on time helped the accused, including CPM leaders, secure bail. "Govt will face the ire of devotees in this election for having hurt their sentiments," he said.Chennithala criticised the language used by chief minister against senior leader G Sudhakaran, who was from his own party, as not in keeping with Kerala culture. "He has been attacking Rahul Gandhi to appease Narendra Modi. Gandhi is the only one fighting against BJP without compromise. Vijayan is hesitant to criticise the central govt or Modi because of his affinity with BJP," he alleged.There is no dispute in UDF about who the next chief minister will be, he said. "Election victory is the priority. The party will unanimously accept any decision taken by the high command. While there is only one leader in CPM, but Congress's strength is that there are many leaders capable of leading the administration," he added.