THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Munnar mayhem continued to rear its head at the LDF meet too with Chief Minister entering into a direct confrontation with CPI over the issue on Friday.
Pinarayi criticised the manner in which the cross at Pappathichola was pulled down and hinted at the wrong impression it can create before society.
“He expressed his serious dissatisfaction. The Left government demolishing the cross could create a wrong impression. He criticised the manner in which Section 144 was declared without informing the police and action was taken. Even for encroachment action should be taken after issuing notice,” sources said.
The LDF meet decided to resume eviction of major encroachments but in a more restrained and cautious manner, a clear indication of the drive going to lose steam.
The CPI however was confident that action was taken as per proceedings only.
“The Revenue Minister explained all the official proceedings followed in the profess, including issuing them notice. There were no lapses from the government side. The allies want the anti-eviction drive to continue. But they were wary about the manner in which the cross was demolished,” they said.
All-party meet
The LDF also decided to call meeting of political parties, religious and community leaders in addition to the media. Meeting of religious leaders and political parties would be called to garner opinions.
The LDF meet also decided that focus should be on major encroachers rather than minor encroachments.
Issues still persist, says CPI
All issues between the two parties have not been sorted out, said CPI state secretary Kanam Rajendran. After bilateral talks with the CPM, Kanam told reporters there were differences of opinion.
Talks between the two parties will continue. More discussions will be held to sort out the issues between the two parties, Kanam said. In addition to Kanam, senior CPI leader Pannian Raveendran, CPM state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan and LDF convener Vaikom Viswan attended the bilateral meet.
Government’s first anniversary
The LDF meet chaired by Pinarayi Vijayan also decided to celebrate the first anniversary of the Left government with elaborate programme.
As part of this one-week long celebrations will be organised from May 25. Public meetings will also be organised at Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode. Meetings would be organised at all Assembly constituencies. The LDF meet also urged the government to issue unconditional title-deeds to farmers in Idukki before the anniversary.