The Kerala Assembly was plunged into turmoil as Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Leader of Opposition VD Satheesan engaged in a fiery debate over a recent clash involving student groups at Kerala University’s Kariavattom campus. The incident allegedly saw members of the Students’ Federation of India (SFI) assaulting San Jose, a leader of the Kerala Students Union (KSU), leading to a confrontation outside a police station.
Congress MLAM Vincent moved an adjournment motion to address the escalating tensions, prompting Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to defend SFI, citing its longstanding history and contrasting it with what he described as the waning influence of KSU. He emphasized, “SFI is not a movement that grew in backrooms. KSU used to dominate every educational institution. How did you end up in your current state?” Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan also referenced historical violence against SFI members, alleging that 35 individuals had lost their lives merely for their association with the organization.
In response, Leader of Opposition VD Satheesan accused the Chief Minister of condoning campus violence through his remarks. He condemned the recent incident, highlighting the assault on San Jose and criticizing the handling of the situation. “Your repeated assertions show you have no intention of correcting anything,” VD Satheesan charged, asserting that the Chief Minister’s statements were tantamount to endorsing violent acts.
The debate escalated further as VD Satheesan reminded Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of his role as a public servant, not a monarch. “You are not a king, but the Chief Minister of the state,” VD Satheesan retorted. In a spirited reply, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan affirmed his commitment to serving the people, stating, “I am no king, but a servant of the people. I will do anything for the people. I will always stand with the people.”
The exchange between the two leaders led to heightened tensions in the Assembly, eventually resulting in its adjournment amidst the uproar.
The incident underscores the deep-seated rivalry between SFI and KSU, the student wings of CPI(M) and Congress respectively, and raises concerns over campus violence and political clashes within educational institutions in Kerala.
