THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: “ I am undergoing some health-related issues, so I will cut short my speech”, in a shuddering voice former CM Oommen Chandy addressed a gathering in P Sankaranarayanan Thampi hall inside the assembly. This event happened six months ago, the last one attended by Oommen Chandy.

Mr.Chandy was invited to the final day of the first-ever Kerala Legislative Assembly International Book Fest. He was felicitated for being the longest-serving MLA in the assembly. Oommen Chandy took the decision to not speak at the event citing health ailments but was forced to take on the podium after receiving thunderous applause from the crowd.

“ I came here because A N Shamseer invited me. I can’t say no to him since he is a good politician. The committee and the organizers have succeeded in instilling a reading habit within the people of Kerala. Let the event be conducted next year also and I wish all success for it, Jai hind.” Oommen Chandy concluded.