Dispute over PM Shri scheme: Govt to immediately take steps to cool tensions with CPI

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The government is in haste for reconciliation following an outburst from ally CPI over the Kerala government, making a U-turn to ink a deal on the PM Shri scheme. The move came following the instructions of the Chief Minister, who feared the growing discord within LDF to be detrimental with the local elections approaching.

Education Minister V. Sivankutty visited the MN memorial yesterday and held discussions with CPI State Secretary Binoy Viswam and Minister G.R. Anil. During a meeting with the party's General Secretary D. Raja in Delhi, CPM General Secretary M.A. Baby suggested resolving the issue amicably through discussion. The CPM General Secretary justified signing the scheme, saying that it would ensure unhindered financial assistance from New Delhi.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will return from Oman today. It is reported that the Chief Minister has spoken to D. Raja on the phone. Left Front Convener T.P. Ramakrishnan will hold discussions and expressed hope that the issues will be resolved.

A furious Binoy Viswam expressed his vehemence, saying, ‘What sort of government is this?’ during the presser held the other day. The same fierce was lacking in his tone when Binoy Viswam met the press on Saturday. The editorial of the party mouthpiece also strongly condemned the CPM's change of stance. AIYF and AISF also marched to the Education Minister's house.

👉 Along with the policy opposition, the CPI expressed its dissent over the second-largest party in the front being ignored in the discussion.

👉 CPI will make the final decision on the matter at the state executive in Alappuzha on Monday. If ministers are withdrawn or non-cooperation is declared, there will be a backlash.

👉 The Chief Minister will also be in Alappuzha on Monday to participate in the closing ceremony of the Punnapra Vayalar festival