Free meal distribution controversy stirs political cauldron in Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The controversy over the distribution of food packets created unnecessary headaches for the UDF government. Although it was the political colour given to the free meal distribution which the minister criticised, the opposition made most of the statement to use it as a political weapon.

Minister K Muraleedharan, who arrived in Aranmula on Sunday, asked DYFI and Seva Bharathi to distribute food packets outside the hospital premises and not enter inside. Realising that public sentiment would be against it, the minister softened his stance later. Seva Bharathi has been distributing free food in government hospitals, including medical colleges, for about 19 years and DYFI for 10 years. DYFI distributes more than 2,000 food packets every day at the Alappuzha Medical College. Many other voluntary organisations also distribute food in hospitals.

"They are sitting in the hospital compound with a political party shed and a flag tied up. They are distributing food. Then what is the government for?" This was the criticism directed by Ambalapuzha MLA Sudhakaran a week ago at Seva Bharathi by naming them, but the ripple effects were felt in CPM and DYFI camp. K. Muraleedharan, who had visited the Vandanam Medical College Hospital on Saturday, had suggested that free food distribution with banners and flags should not be allowed.

"The community kitchen at Alappuzha Medical College is part of an effort to provide food to all patients and their families. Everyone's cooperation is needed. Food has no politics, religion or caste. It doesn't matter who provides it," the minister said.

"No matter who tries to stop this, the distribution of free meals to patients will continue. There is no politics when it comes to food,"- V.K. Sanoj, DYFI State Secretary

“The minister should not behave like a feudal lord".- P.A. Mohammed Riyas MLA

'If those beneficiaries of free meals had voted for those who gave them food, K. Muraleedharan would not have seen the assembly ever "- K.Surendran, former BJP State President