What Sukumaran Nair said is correct, NSS's stand will benefit govt: Vellappally Natesan

ALAPPUZHA: SNDP Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesan has backed NSS general secretary G Sukumaran Nair’s stand on the Global Ayyappa Summit. Speaking to the media in Alappuzha, he said the NSS's position would benefit the LDF in the upcoming local body and assembly elections.

“SNDP also agrees with NSS’s stand on the Sabarimala women's entry issue. NSS is taking a stand based on issues, not politics. What Sukumaran Nair said is correct. NSS need not oppose the government anymore. I don’t know whether it is an equal distance or a right distance, but the approach is correct,” Natesan said.

“We should accept what is right, no matter who says it. It’s not about who speaks, but what is said. Of course, we need not trust the government on everything. But on Sabarimala, the government has the trust of devotees. By following old traditions, the government is acting in line with public sentiment. NSS has never blindly opposed the government. Its stand has always been issue-based,” he said.

Natesan noted that the NSS had earlier opposed the government on the Sabarimala issue but changed its stand when it became clear the government was with the devotees. “The Congress has no clear stand. They should either support or oppose. I don't have any complexes. Congress leaders once tried to put me behind bars. The KPCC even barred its leaders from visiting my house. Still, some came secretly. I have no complaints about those who didn’t come. I am happy. Why should I welcome those who tried to put me behind bars?” he said.