BJP’s Rajeev Chandrasekhar slams Kerala CM over ‘silence’ on Iran’s attacks in Gulf

T'puram: BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar criticized the silence of chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan over Iran's attacks on GCC countries. He also slammed leader of opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi for ‘staging political theatrics' during his visit to the state. Addressing reporters at BJP state headquarters in the Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday, Chandrasekhar said that Vijayan, who raises his voice for Iran, should also respond to the attacks on GCC countries that provide refuge and sustenance to millions of Keralites. Appeasement politics should not blind political parties, he said. "Vijayan should explain what the LDF govt, which was in power for 10 consecutive years, did for the people. Even if Congress and CPM unite against BJP in the elections, the people will ensure BJP's victory," Chandrasekhar said. He also said that Congress's politics is solely based on false promises. "In states like Bihar, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh and Telangana, Congress made similar promises before elections. However, time proved these promises to be empty. In Telangana, the Congress govt, which came to power based on these promises, failed to deliver. The chief minister there claims they are in a position where they must borrow money to pay salaries. The promised amounts to farmers are not provided yet. Although projects were announced, the govt is unable to find the necessary funds. Salaries and pensions for govt employees in Himachal Pradesh are delayed for months. In Karnataka, the deputy chief minister openly states there is no money for development activities," Chandrasekhar said. He added, "The economic foundation of states governed by Congress collapsed due to the announcement of short-sighted projects. The administration in these states is moving forward mired in corruption. Even in states where Rahul Gandhi personally announced promises and Congress came to power, many projects remain unimplemented. This is the scenario expected in Kerala as well." The BJP leader said that Gandhi is making announcements without understanding the situation of a debt-ridden state, and added that if the state govt receives Rs 100, Rs 92.5 is spent on debt repayment, interest and welfare schemes. Only Rs 7.5 is available for development projects. "Salaries and pensions in KSRTC are delayed. Yet, Congress is proposing gimmicks like free travel," he added.