PIL seeks Code of Conduct

Kochi: A petition has been filed before Kerala High Court seeking state government to consider framing an extensive Code of Conduct for ministers in the state in the wake of controversial remarks made by power minister M. M. Mani.

The speeches made by the minister are not in tune with the oath he had taken under the Constitution, argued petitioner Joseph Shine, and that he had made abusive and derogatory comments against several groups and persons including women, civil servants and media persons.

Several complaints are pending at police stations seeking to register cases against him. His statements and actions and the inaction of the chief minister and state police chief are illegal, he argued.

Petitioner submitted that the minister had made statements not befitting his position. He is a threat to the principle of good governance. Hence, its repetition has to be curtailed.

Petitioner also sought a directive to the CM to initiate action against him.
Another plea was filed before the court alleging that Mr Mani had outraged the modesty and used abusive language against more than 10,000 women plantation workers who had participated in their historic struggle demanding decent wages and bonus.

He earlier insulted the woman principal of Painavu Government Polytechnic using abusive language, and later he apologised for that, the petition said.

The minister is a habitual offender and regularly uses offensive language and lewd remarks against women. The petitioner also accused Mr Mani of using abusive language against upright civil service officers.