'What undisclosable deal was helicopter trip for?' Kerala CM's helicopter trip draws fresh attack from MV Govindan

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: CPM state secretary M. V. Govindan accused Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan of failing to coordinate rescue operations or visit people affected despite the severe monsoon devastation in the state. Addressing a press conference, Govindan questioned the purpose of the Chief Minister's helicopter journey, asking what "undisclosable deal" necessitated the trip.

"The claim that he travelled to meet an investor is false. He actually went by helicopter to meet his father-in-law. Kerala's Chief Minister cannot remain at peace without telling at least one lie. Instead of coordinating relief operations, he was attending a function and the inauguration of a jewellery store," Govindan alleged.

The CPM state secretary also accused the government of hypocrisy over the use of helicopters. Govindan said those who had levelled allegations when the previous Left government hired helicopters were now using them for personal purposes. "The previous government used helicopters to address people's issues. Today, they are being used for private needs. Earlier too, chartered aircraft were used to meet BJP leaders and others," he alleged.

Responding to remarks made by minister C. P. John regarding the Priyadarshini free bus travel scheme, Govindan said the minister should apologise for insulting women in Kerala.

He said women in the state are empowered and criticised the minister for speaking about the free travel scheme as though it were an act of charity. Govindan also objected to the minister's alleged remark that women travelling on ordinary buses were merely pretending to be poor.

"It is not right to insult people who are availing themselves of a scheme that was promised to secure votes," he added.