Wayanad, February 10: V.D. Satheeshan, the leader of the opposition in the Kerala Assembly, launched a scathing attack on Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s government on Tuesday. He accused the administration of failure, political intolerance, and gross neglect of disaster-affected Wayanad. Satheeshan stated that even “good communists and old supporters of the Left want to see the CPI(M) out of power more than the UDF.”
Speaking to the media during the ‘Samvadikkam Puthuyugathinaayi’ program organized under the Puthuyug Yatra, Satheeshan emphasized that the voices of cultural activists and former Left supporters reflect the true sentiments of the people of Kerala.
“When people hear the term ‘Pinarayi Three,’ they hold their heads in despair. They fear what will happen to Kerala if this government comes to power for a third time,” he remarked.
The Congress leader pointed out that poets and cultural figures like K. Sachidanandan and Sara Joseph have echoed the sentiments of ordinary citizens. He accused the government of responding to criticism with intolerance.
“Everyone has the right to criticize. The criticism here is directed at the Pinarayi regime, its policies, and its right-wing style, which has disappointed even the old allies of the Left,” he added.
Referring to Wayanad, he described the situation in the Mundakkai-Choorlamala disaster-affected area as extremely concerning. He noted that victims still lack basic roads and bridges to access their land, many eligible families are excluded from the beneficiary list, and essential follow-up medical facilities are not being provided.
Satheeshan alleged that despite the availability of ₹1,684 crore from the disaster relief fund and central assistance, the government has failed to utilize these funds to aid the poor.
He characterized the condition of Wayanad Medical College as “deplorable,” stating that patients are being sent back to district hospitals due to a lack of basic facilities like X-rays.
“The health sector is on life support, and Wayanad Medical College is the biggest example of this,” he said.
On the political front, Satheeshan claimed there are deep divisions within the LDF, with a lack of trust between the CPI(M) and CPI, while “Team UDF” remains united and stable.
He reiterated that the UDF will prepare a comprehensive document for Wayanad’s development before the conclusion of the Puthuyug Yatra and will present timely solutions.
Accusing the government of “persecuting the poor even after the disaster,” Satheeshan stated that the funds raised for Wayanad victims have been deposited into the treasury, while basic medical assistance has not been provided. “Aside from a couple of token visits by some ministers, the government has completely abandoned the affected people,” he asserted.
It is noteworthy that assembly elections are scheduled to be held in Kerala in April-May.
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