Kerala CM must clarify stand on PM SHRI scheme: BJP

BJP member P.K. Krishnadas has called on Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan to clarify his stance on the Panchayat Minister K.M. Shaji's criticism of the PM SHRI scheme. The BJP official stated that even two days after Shaji's remarks, Satheesan has remained silent on the matter. The PM SHRI scheme, aimed at promoting academic excellence among students through science and technology tools, would be an injustice to thousands of needy students in the state if it were to be "flushed down the drain," Krishnadas argued.

He also alleged that the UDF (United Democratic Front), which includes the Congress and the IUML (Indian Union Muslim League), is influenced by religious and divisive agendas, citing the dishonoring of the national song Vande Mataram at the state's Independence Day celebrations. Additionally, Krishnadas pointed to the SFI (Students' Federation of India) assault on a woman Vice-Chancellor from a minority community at Kalady Sanskrit University as a shocking violation of Kerala's cultural values.

Despite police presence, no immediate intervention occurred, and the Chief Minister questioned the Governor's decision to involve the DGP (Director General of Police). The BJP strongly condemned the violence against women and the hooliganism on the campus by SFI.