THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Congress Working Committee member Ramesh Chennithala said that Governor Rajendra Arlekar was insulting and mocking both the Republic of India and its Constitution by installing a portrait of Bharat Mata holding a saffron flag at the Raj Bhavan. He emphasised that the Governor is a constitutional post and that the Raj Bhavan is a nerve centre of administration.
“There are certain dignities and protocols that one must uphold while occupying such positions. The Governor of Kerala is now seen violating those standards. Portraying the symbols and flags of a particular political organisation as if they represent the entire nation is highly inappropriate," Chennithala said.
Chennithala further pointed out that the image of Bharat Mata holding a saffron flag is associated with the Sangh Parivar and is not an emblem recognised by the Indian Constitution. "Even the Prime Minister, who belongs to the same political party as the Governor, and President Droupadi Murmu do not display the saffron flag in their official offices or residences, but only the Indian national flag. Those holding constitutional positions should have at least this basic awareness," he added.
Chennithala urged the Governor to cease such inappropriate actions in Kerala and instead show respect for the country and its Constitution. “If not, the Governor will have to face strong opposition from the people of Kerala,” he warned.