Kerala polls: No crisis over TK Govindan leaving party, says CM Pinarayi Vijayan

KOTTAYAM: Chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan stated that T K Govindan leaving party in Kannur has not caused any crisis and that people in all constituencies will reject those ‘class traitors'. Addressing a news conference here on Wednesday, Vijayan said candidacy of P K Shyamala is a decision by state committee and he was also involved in all related discussions. He described Govindan's actions as opportunistic. "Opposition is spreading lies through agencies because they cannot counter with facts. They are unable to criticise govt's actions. Typically, a no-confidence motion is used to present a chargesheet against govt, but this opportunity was not utilised," he said.

"It is the aides of opposition leader who are tarnishing cultural sector. Neither govt nor ministers pose a challenge to cultural heritage. When allegations came up against aides of opposition leader, victims were insulted. This happened with the consent of opposition leader, who encourages a group that spreads any kind of filth. When opposition leader gives advice now, people view it with a smirk," Vijayan said.

Chief minister also responded to corruption allegations made by K C Venugopal regarding operating hours of bars. He stated that taking bribes is part of UDF culture.

‘Coterie' around CPM state secretary: T K Govindan

CPM-rebel independent candidate in Taliparamba T K Govindan alleged that there was a ‘coterie' around CPM state secretary M V Govindan and many projects that he implemented in the constituency were to further private interests.

Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Govindan said he would reveal more details about the functioning of this group.

Claiming that party machinery was disproportionately concentrated in Taliparamba, Govindan said that even senior leaders like K K Shailaja, who is facing a tough contest in Peravoor, were being mobilised to campaign for Shyamala, including participation in roadshows in the constituency.