Govt not to give up move to amend Rules of Business; might implement amendment with certain changes

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Sources said that the state government has decided not to abandon the controversial Rules of Business Amendment move which gives more power to the Chief Minister. It is learnt that a draft amendment, proposed by the cabinet sub-committee, will be sent to the Governor after making certain changes in the controversial parts. The government is also planning to discuss the matter with constituent parties, including the CPI, which opposes the amendment

According to the government, the amendment is necessary in order to overcome the difficulties created by government regulations during emergency situations. During the 2018 floods, certain government procedures had adversely affected the speeding up of reconstruction works as well as the government's decisions on accepting foreign aid. The proposed amendment would give direct power to the Chief Minister to settle matters with the assistance of the Secretaries of Departments, overcoming the impediments of various departments, including Finance and Revenue. The main allegation against the amendment is that it encroaches on the powers of the departmental ministers.