CPM Questions VD Satheesan Over Chartered Flight to Malappuram
CPI(M) has questioned Kerala CM V D Satheesan over his chartered flight to rain-hit Malappuram and sought clarity on who funded the journey.
The CPI(M) has criticised Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan over his use of a chartered aircraft to travel to rain-hit Malappuram, questioning who funded the journey and whether private sponsorship was appropriate for official travel. CPI(M) leader P Rajeev alleged that details about the sponsor had not been disclosed.
Satheesan travelled by chartered aircraft on September 21 to assess damage caused by heavy rain and flash floods in Malappuram. His office said the government did not incur any additional expense and that the aircraft was arranged because the police helicopter contract had expired and regular flights to Karipur were unavailable. Government sources said the private aircraft was provided free of charge following an official request.
The issue has triggered criticism from CPI(M), DYFI and SFI leaders, who have questioned the use of privately provided travel for an official visit and called for greater transparency over the arrangement. Some opposition figures have also raised questions about alleged sponsorship of ministers’ foreign trips and other recent controversies involving government officials.
The Congress-led government has defended the travel, maintaining that it did not burden the state exchequer. Minister O J Janeesh also said ministers could undertake personal foreign travel as long as official responsibilities and public funds were not compromised.
The dispute has now widened beyond one flight, with the political debate focusing on transparency, private sponsorship and the standards expected of public office holders.
