Friday, Apr 12, 2013
Thiruvananthapuram: A drought-like situation prevails in the state, the farmers are suffering from acute water shortage, and even drinking water has turned a precious commodity. But in the midst of such anguish all around, the agriculture department has showered a largesse on the state’s legislators.
The 141 MLAs in the state were in for a surprise when the agriculture department gifted them each a 22-inch television as a Vishu gift, sparking a row in the state. Interestingly, even the Opposition MLAs did not find the gift out of place.
Agriculture minister KP Mohanan, who is the target of criticism for this largesse, is unfazed. The minister has explained that there is nothing new about a Vishu gift and that such gifts have been given in the past as well.
In past instances, MLAs have been beneficiaries of iPads and high-end mobile phones. It is estimated that the gifting of TVs to the legislators has cost the state roughly Rs1.7 million.
Mohanan also countered criticism that the TV sets were purchased by diverting funds for other purposes, stating that the money was raised through contributions from public sector enterprises. Assembly speaker G Karthikeyan also defended the agriculture minister’s move, pointing out there was precedence of gifts being given to legislators.
Meanwhile, Marxist leader V.S. Achuthanandan Friday said he will return an LCD television gifted to him by Mohanan.
“The state is facing severe drought and at this juncture I feel a TV is not needed. I am returning it,” said the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) leader in a letter to the minister.
The media has opposed the decision of Mohanan to gift LCD TVs to 141 legislators and 10 government officials.
Kerala is facing an acute shortage of water owing to the failure of summer rains.
While Achuthanandan has decided to return the TV, his party colleague Kodiyeri Balakrishnan held a different view. “The previous Left government also gave gifts like this,” he said.
Assembly Speaker G. Karthikeyan too said it was a common practice for ministers to give gifts to legislators.
“The gift was planned some time back and it should not be mixed with the issue of drought,” Mohanan said.
Water shortage in the state has pushed it towards a serious power crisis. Water storages in dams across the state are reaching critical levels, pointing to frequent power outages in the coming weeks.
By Akhel Mathew Correspondent
Gulf News 2013. All rights reserved.
