Opposition leader sets example in Assembly; withdraws incorrect remark, earns appreciation from both fronts

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Known for heated clashes and even scuffles, the Kerala Assembly on Friday witnessed a proud and rare moment. Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan set an example for parliamentary tradition by admitting his mistake, withdrawing his remark, and apologising. The Speaker and members across party lines appreciated his gesture.

The issue began on Thursday when Satheesan, during a debate on Congress MLA P.C. Vishnunath’s adjournment motion on price rise, accused Minister G.R. Anil of “telling blatant lies.” Minister Anil pointed out that Satheesan himself had praised government measures against inflation during a speech at the inauguration of the Paravur Onam market. However, Satheesan denied speaking at the event, claiming he only lit the ceremonial lamp and insisted that the minister was lying. The minister countered that he had video proof of the speech and was ready to share it.

On Friday, Minister Anil raised the matter again, demanding that Satheesan’s speech video be placed on record. By then, the Opposition had staged a walkout and later returned to the House. On rejoining, Satheesan withdrew his earlier remarks, apologised, and requested the Speaker to remove the term “blatant lie” from the Assembly records.

Not a single word of mine should negatively affect future generations: V D Satheesan

Clarifying his position, Satheesan said: “I did speak for a minute after inaugurating the Onam market, but it was only about Supplyco’s relevance, not praising the government. It was an error of memory. I said ‘blatant lie’ in sudden provocation. The term is unparliamentary- it should have been ‘factually incorrect.’ Former minister Mathew T. Thomas pointed this out to me. I have been an MLA for 24 years and never once had to withdraw a word from the record. I have now written to the Speaker to remove it. None of my words should negatively affect future generations. I apologise to the minister and to the House.”

The Assembly welcomed his statement with applause.

Speaker A.N. Shamseer remarked: “The Opposition Leader’s correction is an admirable model. What matters most is the willingness to rectify words spoken in sudden provocation.”