Kerala Governor Publicly Protests Against SFI Activists
In a startling public demonstration, Arif Mohammed Khan, the Governor of Kerala, staged a sit-in protest against activists of the Students Federation of India (SFI). The Governor demanded that these activists, who had previously protested against him, be arrested and held accountable for their actions. This incident took place on a bustling highway in the Kollam district’s Nilamel area. Reports from the Reader Wall newsroom confirm the confrontational nature of the situation, with Governor Khan passionately addressing law enforcement officials and onlookers who gather at the shop where he had made his stand.
The Face-Off
Activists from the ruling CPI(M)’s student wing, the Student Federation of India (SFI), had earlier launched a protest against the governor while he was en route to Kottarakkara for a function. Tension has been building for some time between Kerala’s governing party and the governor, primarily over the operation of universities and his refusal to sign bills passed by the assembly.
Recent Developments in the Conflict
This incident follows a succession of unusual events involving the Governor and state officials. During his customary policy address in the Kerala Legislature, Khan read only the concluding paragraph and concluded his speech after just two minutes. Furthermore, previously scheduled at the Raj Bhavan, a reception was organized, but Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, his cabinet members, or LDF MLAs did not attend this event. Despite being invited, none of them appeared between 6:30 and 7:30 pm when the event was held. KR Jyothilal, an additional chief secretary of the general administration department, represented the Kerala government at the event.
A Divided Republic Day
The tension between the Kerala Governor and the ruling party of the state also manifested during Republic Day celebrations at the Central Stadium in the state capital. Both Governor Khan and Chief Minister Vijayan were in attendance but were seen disregarding each other despite being seated together. This division amongst the top-tier officials of the state is indicative of the disputes they have been having as of late.
The situation in Kerala continues to be a matter of national interest and would be closely regulated by all stakeholders. Reader Wall news will continue to provide updates on this developing story.
