Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has raised concerns over the denial of political clearance for State Health Minister Veena George to travel to Kuwait in response to the recent fire incident. In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vijayan emphasized the importance of cooperative federalism and urged the External Affairs Ministry to reconsider its decision, highlighting the critical role the minister could have played in coordinating relief efforts and comforting affected families.
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- Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan wrote to PM Modi regarding denial of political clearance to Health Minister Veena George to visit Kuwait after the fire incident.
- Vijayan expressed disappointment over the lack of response from the External Affairs Ministry (EAM) to the clearance request.
- The CM emphasized that the minister’s presence in Kuwait would have facilitated coordination with Indian authorities and provided reassurance to affected families.
- He argued that denying political clearance contradicts the principles of cooperative federalism, where states and the Union collaborate during crises.
- Vijayan clarified that the state government’s decision to send the minister was based on valid grounds and within the guidelines set by the Cabinet Secretariat.
- The CM stressed that political considerations should not hinder humanitarian efforts during crises.
- He requested PM Modi to instruct the EAM to be more responsive to such requests in the future, underscoring the importance of cooperative federalism in disaster response.
- Vijayan highlighted the need for a supportive environment between the Union and states to foster effective governance and disaster mitigation.
- He assured that his intention was not to create controversy but to ensure the state government’s duty in times of distress is fulfilled.
- The CM concluded by urging PM Modi to intervene and address the issue promptly, emphasizing the critical role of political clearances in humanitarian missions.
