K Muraleedharan Defends CM V D Satheesan Again Over Private Luncheon During Flood Crisis

Thiruvananthapuram: Health Minister K Muraleedharan once again defended Chief Minister V D Satheesan over his participation in a luncheon at the residence of a Muslim League leader while people across Keralam were struggling amid flood-like conditions.

“Everyone eats when it is lunchtime. What is so special about that?” Muraleedharan asked.

Earlier, Muraleedharan had defended the Chief Minister’s recent visit to meet his father-in-law in a government-hired helicopter, saying that as times change, cars would be replaced by helicopters.

The Chief Minister attended the luncheon at the residence of a Muslim League leader in Ponnani without ensuring proper coordination among government departments, even as relief camps across the state were reportedly struggling to function due to shortages of food and basic facilities. He also responded sarcastically when questioned by journalists about attending the event.

“Am I not allowed to eat when there is waterlogging in Kerala? I made a mistake. I will not eat again,” the Chief Minister said.

People have been protesting over the failure to issue timely warnings. However, the Chief Minister was accused of evading a direct response to the issue.

There are also widespread complaints among residents that government agencies have failed to function effectively, even in areas where floodwaters have receded, with inadequate arrangements for cleaning operations and rescue efforts in isolated locations.