Kerala High Court seeks state view on code of conduct for ministers

Kochi: The Kerala High Court on Friday sought the state government’s view on a petition seeking a directive to the state government to consider framing of an extensive Code of Conduct for Ministers in the state in the wake of repeated controversial remarks made by Power Minister MM Mani.

The court will consider the case after the summer vacation. The Court was considering a petition filed by litigant Joseph Shine. According to the petitioner, MM Mani had made abusive and derogatory comments against several groups and persons including women, civil servants and media persons. Several complaints were pending before police officers seeking to register a case against Mani. The statements and actions of the Minister and the inaction of the Chief Minister and state police chief in taking action against him were illegal.

The petitioner submitted that the Minister had made statements not befitting his position as a cabinet minister. He had also threatened the principle of good governance and hence, its repetition had to be curtailed. The petitioner also sought a directive to the Chief Minister to initiate action against the Minister.