Used my own style in speech; regrets for misinterpreting it, says Saji Cheriyan

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Fisheries and Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cheriyan expressed regret in the assembly for his remarks against the Indian Constitution at a public event. The minister alleged that his speech was misinterpreted.

‘The movement that I belong to is in the forefront demanding the protection of the Constitution and the values it upholds. In order to get justice to the exploited masses of the country, the directives of the Constitution need to be strengthened. In my words I expressed a concern that the Constitution would be weak to defend against growing inequalities. I never intended to insult or say anything against the Constitution,’ said the minister.

The principles of secularism, democracy and federal system upheld by the Constitution are facing severe challenges. I pointed that the imposition of labour codes in the country by abrogating the laws regarding the rights of workers will lead to gross exploitation. All this is the result of the policies adopted by the government systems that lead the administration in the country. I have pointed out that these policies will destroy the essence of the constitution, clarified the minister.

'I just did the duty of the public servant pointing the denial of social justice to the people. Made a political speech respecting and accepting the Constitution. Presented things in my own style. I express my regret if things have been misinterpreted that I did not mean,’ the minister said.