KOCHI: High court has strongly criticized the government for convening an all-party meeting in connection with the removal of roadside flag poles. The parties states that they need permission for putting up flagpoles as a court order still remains. But they lack the courage to say this in court. If this is the approach of the political parties, do not call it New Kerala. Justice Devan Ramachandran asked how to proceed if the order is violated.

High Court has been taking a strong stand against roadside flag hoisting. An interim order was also issued against putting up of flag poles on pavements and roadsides. It is against this backdrop that the all-party meeting was convened headed by the Chief Minister. Opposition leader V D Satheesan and other leaders were also present at the meeting.

It was decided that flag poles can be put up in private walls or compounds with the permission of the owners and without affecting traffic, the release said. In public areas, like footpaths, flag poles may be erected for conventions and festivals with the permission of the authorities concerned and without obstructing pedestrians right of way, the parties decided in the meeting.

They also decided that it should be specified in advance as to how many days the flag poles would be present and when they would be removed after the event concludes, these were the suggestions made by Chief Minister.