'Will have to take some tough measures'; V D Satheesan visits A K  Antony after being named Chief Minister

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Following the Congress high command’s announcement naming him Kerala’s Chief Minister, V D Satheesan first met senior Congress leader A K Antony. After leaving Cantonment House, Satheesan arrived at Antony’s residence in Vazhuthacaud later in the afternoon. Antony is understood to have played a key role in Satheesan’s appointment, reportedly urging the Congress high command to take public sentiment into account during the selection process.

Antony welcomed Satheesan at the entrance of his home. The two held a private discussion for about half an hour before meeting the media together. Expressing his support, Antony stated that he was delighted with the appointment, adding that Satheesan has been entrusted with the mission to lead Kerala to become the number one state in the country in terms of development and public welfare.

"I fully support the decision taken by Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Mallikarjun Kharge. I wish for the next five years to be the golden era for Kerala," Antony said.

'A bankrupt state, will have to take tough measures'
Addressing the state's financial health, A K Antony warned that Kerala is currently in a "bankrupt" state, and the true extent of the financial crisis is not widely known. He urged the public to give V D Satheesan time to steer the state out of this situation.

"Some tough measures will have to be taken; we will have to tighten our belts. Satheesan will have his own vision and dreams for the state. People should not expect a series of populist decisions right from the start," Antony advised.

Reflecting on his own experience, he added, "When I became Chief Minister in 2001, there was great enthusiasm and media support. However, I had to take some harsh decisions at a time when there wasn't even enough money for a flight ticket to Delhi. Those who cheered for me initially ended up pelting stones. I hope Satheesan does not have to face such a situation."