Apu John Joseph is government chief whip, cabinet approves policy address

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The cabinet meeting decided to appoint Thodupuzha MLA and Kerala Congress State Coordinator Apu John Joseph as the Government Chief Whip. The new position comes with cabinet rank. Apu is the son of Kerala Congress Chairman and former minister P.J. Joseph.

The cabinet meeting approved the draft policy statement to be made by the Governor in the assembly on the 29th.

Adv. K.C. Vincent was appointed as Additional Advocate General in the High Court. Director General of Prosecutions T. Asaf Ali has been given the charge of Lokayukta Special Attorney and State Public Prosecutor. The Director General of Prosecutions regularly holds this charge. It has also been decided to include subjects from the Social Justice Department in the newly formed Elderly Department. The Chief Minister will temporarily hold the charge of the Elderly Department. A meeting of Collectors will be held online at 10 am on Wednesday to discuss the steps to be taken during the monsoon season.

Comprehensive amendments in land laws are expected to eliminate the hardships associated with land. Money for paddy procurement will be provided immediately. Action will be taken if it is noticed that victims of sexual assault cases are being humiliated. Prosecutors will be appointed in the Muttil tree-cutting case. The criteria for free travel for women in KSRTC will be announced before June 15. The Finance Department will take steps to increase tax revenue. Tax evasion will be dealt with strictly.