Kerala CM took 25 foreign trips in 9 yrs, got no investment for the state: BJP
In a shocking revelation, an RTI (Right to Information) query has exposed Kerala Chief Minister and CPI(M) leader Pinarayi Vijayan’s frequent foreign trips, leaving questions about the purpose and returns on investment for the state. The BJP has seized the opportunity to take a jibe at the Chief Minister, accusing him of using official trips for personal vacations.
According to the RTI response, Vijayan has taken nearly 25 foreign trips since 2016, which is a staggering number considering the state’s financial constraints and pressing development needs. The BJP has taken umbrage with the fact that not a single Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) or investment deal has been signed or attracted during these trips.
“This is an absolute waste of public money,” said BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla. “Through these trips, nothing was gained for the state; no MoUs were signed, no investments were attracted. It’s a clear case of abuse of power and public funds.”
Kerala BJP president Rajeev Chandrasekhar echoed similar sentiments, questioning the legitimacy of these trips. “These trips were not taken for any official purpose, but solely for vacation. It’s an insult to the people of Kerala who are struggling to make ends meet.”
The BJP’s criticism is not without merit. Kerala is one of the most densely populated states in the country, and its economy is heavily dependent on agriculture and remittances from the Gulf. The state is also reeling under a massive debt burden, with estimates suggesting that it owes over ₹4 lakh crore to various financial institutions.
Given these pressing concerns, it is perplexing that the Chief Minister would prioritize foreign trips over addressing the state’s developmental needs. The fact that no MoUs or investments were signed during these trips raises questions about the effectiveness of the state’s economic diplomacy and the Chief Minister’s ability to attract foreign investment.
Moreover, the BJP’s criticism is not limited to Vijayan’s foreign trips alone. They have also questioned the lack of transparency and accountability in the state’s governance. “The people of Kerala have a right to know what their Chief Minister is doing during these trips,” said Poonawalla. “The government’s refusal to provide information only adds to the suspicion that something fishy is going on.”
The RTI query was filed by a local activist who sought information on Vijayan’s foreign trips, including the purpose, duration, and costs incurred. The response revealed that the Chief Minister had visited countries such as China, the United States, Germany, and Australia among others. However, the details of the trips, including the meetings and discussions held, were not made public.
The BJP’s criticism has sparked a heated debate in Kerala, with some opposition parties demanding an inquiry into the matter. The CPI(M) leadership has, however, defended Vijayan’s foreign trips, claiming that they were undertaken for official purposes and that the state’s interests were protected.
While it is true that diplomatic trips can be important for fostering international relations and attracting investment, the lack of transparency and accountability in Vijayan’s foreign trips raises serious questions about the Chief Minister’s commitment to good governance.
As the people of Kerala continue to struggle with the state’s financial woes, it is imperative that their elected representatives prioritize their needs and interests over personal indulgences. The BJP’s criticism may be seen as an attempt to score political points, but it also highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in the state’s governance.
As the controversy surrounding Vijayan’s foreign trips continues to simmer, it remains to be seen how the Chief Minister will respond to the allegations. Will he provide a detailed account of the trips and the benefits accrued to the state? Or will he continue to maintain a veil of secrecy, leaving the people of Kerala to wonder about the true purpose of these trips?
Only time will tell, but for now, the BJP’s criticism has sparked a much-needed debate about accountability and transparency in Kerala’s governance.
