District collectors weren't instructed to find funds for Navakerala Sadas via advertisement, govt tells court

KOCHI: The government explained in the High Court that the district collectors were not directed to find funds for the Navakerala Sadas through advertisement. In a petition challenging the order issued by the government on October 27 giving responsibility to the district collectors regarding the management of the Navakerala Sadas, which is being led by the Chief Minister, the High Court had stayed the proposal to raise funds through advertisement.

In this context, Advocate General K Gopalakrishna Kuruppu explained for the government that the directive was not in order. The order also stated that the collectors should hold discussions with the people's representatives and higher officials to find sponsors. A division bench comprising Justice A Mohammad Mushtaq and Justice Shobha Annamma Eapen clarified that the matter could be recorded in the interim order. The plea was adjourned to January 17.

The division bench was considering a petition filed by Jolimon Kalayil, a native of Malayalappuzha in Pathanamthitta, alleging that the government's move to use district collectors to raise funds for the Navakerala Sadas is a violation of the All India Civil Service Rules. At the same time, the AG stated that in the order dated October 16, it was clearly directed not to stamp coupons or collect money for this purpose.

The petitioner contended that there is an expenditure of Rs 1 crore to conduct the Navkerala Sadas in one constituency and even if the funds are raised through sponsorship, it would fall under the purview of the Prevention of Corruption Act if there accurate accounts are not provided.