'Despicable from Palakkad UDF candidate and his sponsor' ; Min M B Rajesh reacts to handshake incident

PALAKKAD: Minister MB Rajesh criticized UDF candidate Rahul Mamkootathil and MP Shafi Parambil for rejecting a handshake from LDF candidate Sarin. The congress young stalwarts rejected the greetings from the LDF candidate at a marriage function in Palakkad. This has already kick-started debate within political centres in the state and mostly in the by-poll-bound Palakkad.

By the time Sarin extended his hands to exchange greetings, the two congressmen walked away. Sarin attempted to alleviate tensions with his former pals but to no avail.

M B Rajesh’s Facebook post:

How can humans stoop to such lows?

Despite the humble façade, the disgusting nature of some people does come out at times. Palakkad UDF candidate and his sponsor Vadakara MP did the same at a marriage function in Palakkad today. Running in elections against each other is by no means a reason to share enmity in real life. Certain common etiquettes have always existed in politics and public life. The congress candidate and his best friend's gesture was bereft of these qualities.

In my first-ever election, I had to face Satheeshan Pacheni. There was no shortage of camaraderie during the competition and until his recent death. I had a close contest with MP Virendrakumar in the next election. Meanwhile, we used to exchange pleasantries and often held talks in public spaces.

I suffered an unexpected loss against V K Sreekantan in the 2019 elections. The next day after his win. I dialled and congratulated him on his victory. A few days later, Sreekantan came to my house and returned after having a meal and a friendly conversation.

It was a hotly contested election against V T Balram in Thrithala. But we had no reason to stop greeting each other or engage in glib talks. The political culture of seeing the opponent as the enemy is despicable. Sarin was sensible in extending his hands for exchanging greetings. This is what is expected from a mature and sensible public servant. But the LDF candidate was humiliated by the disgusting act of the two congress leaders.