Opposition LDF Accuses Arlekar of Attempting To Run Parallel Administration
Kerala govt conveys strong displeasure over Governor calling meetings of department officials in connection with International Yoga Day
Thiruvanathapuram: The Congress-led UDF government in Kerala voiced strong disapproval of Governor Rajendra Viswanath Arlekar calling a meeting of various department officials in connection with International Yoga Day.
In a communique to the Lok Bhavan, the Chief Secretary conveyed the government’s dissatisfaction, noting that such meetings or reviews involving officials fall under the executive functions of the government. He also urged the Lok Bhavan to take special care to ensure such incidents do not happen again in the future.
News that the Governor had called a meeting of various departments to review preparations for International Yoga Day reached the government through media reports. On Thursday morning, the Chief Minister’s Office contacted the Governor’s Office to find out what had occurred between the Lok Bhavan and the officials.
The Governor’s Secretary later informed the Chief Secretary that no special meeting had been held, and only communication regarding Yoga Day had taken place.
Pinarayi accuses the Governor of attempting to run parallel administration
Earlier, Kerala Assembly Opposition Leader Pinarayi Vijayan criticized the Governor, accusing him of trying to run a parallel administration.
Responding to reports about the Governor calling meetings with various department officials ahead of International Yoga Day, Vijayan said this went against established democratic practices and constitutional norms. “This is a very serious matter.
The Governor is moving towards acting as a parallel administrative authority, which is unacceptable,” he stated at a press conference. The opposition leader added that Chief Minister V D Satheesan was responsible for safeguarding the authority and dignity of the state government and should clarify his stance.
He also recalled that in 2024, when the then Governor sought reports from the Chief Secretary and State Police Chief, the LDF government strongly opposed the move.
