Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s private three-nation trip with his family has sparked controversy as he returns to Kerala abruptly. The lack of official intimation about his visit raised eyebrows, with even Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan expressing surprise over the undisclosed overseas tour. Vijayan’s return, shrouded in secrecy, saw no officials present at the Thiruvananthapuram airport, only his personal security guards. While on tour, he conducted a Cabinet meeting via video conference from Dubai, informing colleagues of his planned return on May 20. Criticism from political opponents, particularly the Congress and BJP, escalated, accusing Vijayan of secrecy and political avoidance. Despite being the sole CPI(M) chief minister, his absence from election campaigning drew strong criticism. Vijayan’s travel companions included his family members and State Tourism Minister PA Mohammed Riyas, visiting Indonesia, Singapore, and UAE.
BulletsIn
- Controversial Trip: CM Vijayan cuts short undisclosed three-nation private tour.
- Lack of Intimation: Trip sparks uproar due to absence of official notification.
- Governor’s Remarks: Kerala Governor expresses surprise over undisclosed overseas visit.
- Secret Return: Vijayan’s return kept under wraps, no officials present at airport.
- Cabinet Meeting: Conducted via video conference from Dubai during the tour.
- Political Backlash: Congress and BJP criticize Vijayan’s secrecy and absence from campaigning.
- Opposition Criticism: Leader of Opposition accuses Vijayan of fear towards PM Modi.
- Travel Companions: Vijayan accompanied by family and State Tourism Minister on trip.
- Visited Countries: Tour included visits to Indonesia, Singapore, and UAE.
- Abrupt Conclusion: Vijayan’s trip ends amid heightened controversy and political scrutiny.
