Kerala Electricity Minister Mani may face party music over Pembilai Orumai row

The CPM is likely to take disciplinary action against Electricity Minister M M Mani for his derogatory remarks against women.

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The CPM is likely to take disciplinary action against Electricity Minister M M Mani for his derogatory remarks against women. The secretariat is learnt to have reached an understanding for action - most likely censure - against the minister.  

The party state secretariat which met here on Tuesday witnessed severe criticism being raised against the Idukki leader for his constant remarks putting the CPM on the defensive. A decision will be finalised by the two-day state committee beginning on Wednesday.

At the secretariat meet, many senior leaders came down heavily on the senior leader, who is also a secretariat member, for his constant controversial remarks. The anti-women remarks by the leader would lead to alienating the party from the people.  It was pointed out the Idukki leader has landed the party and the Left Front in trouble many a time. His remarks are unbecoming of a minister, said many secretariat members.

AAP leader C R Neelakandan extending support to the 

Orumai

Some leaders said Mani should be more cautious while making statements. At times the government is forced to take responsibility for the controversial remarks by the senior leader.

Later, Mani told reporters the party has discussed the controversy. He said he would correct his style if it needs correction. Mani also expressed regret over his remarks being misunderstood. Responding to questions, Mani said he’ll abide by any decision taken by the party.

CM backs Mani

Rejecting demands for Mani’s resignation, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said the minister had expressed regret over the remarks and there’s no need for a debate. In the Assembly, Mani denied making any derogatory remarks against women or Pembilai Orumai. Mani said he had not used the word ‘women’ anywhere in his 17-minute speech. With the first anniversary of the government approaching, neither the CPM nor the government is interested in another resignation from the Cabinet.

Opposition targets Mani

M M Mani came under fire on the first day of the Assembly session with a determined Opposition clamouring for his resignation over his derogatory remarks.