Toothless cat

#Toothless Cat.

In a shocking display of political acrobatics, the recent nod from the presidential podium has effectively transformed the Kerala Lok Ayukta into a toothless tiger. Now, It  is akin to a house cat with soft meows rather than a fierce guardian of public integrity. The move feels less like a step toward transparency and accountability than a master class in the art of bureaucratic jujitsu.

In a state where corruption often seems to have many layers, one would expect the Lok Ayukta to wield the sword of justice with the force of a thunderclap. Instead, it appears they were handed a butter knife and politely asked to ask the perpetrators to cease and desist. 

If toothlessness was an Olympic sport, Kerala's Lok Ayukta would undoubtedly win the gold medal. Citizens then wonder if the term “anti-corruption” is just a euphemism for particularly dull administrative gymnastics.

-K A Solaman

K-Soda

K-Soda

In a groundbreaking move, the Kerala state government has decided to dip its toes into the lucrative world of soda and soft drink production. Soda Is an essential item for liquor business.

Because when we think of government efficiency, we definitely think of fizzy drinks, right? So, Kerala is set to revolutionize the beverage industry. Forget about traditional industries like agriculture or infrastructure; sodas are the future, apparently.

In a statement, a government official remarked, "We've tackled education, healthcare, and even tourism. It's time we bring our innovative spirit to the realm of carbonated beverages. When human body tries hard to give out all carbon dioxide from it, the  government proposes to augment it with carbonated water.

Because when life gives us lemons, we don't just make lemonade. We form a corporation, preferably a K-Soda corporation to evaluate the optimal lemon-to-sugar ratio. The citizens then wait in line for a permit to purchase citrus. Cheers to Kerala, where the fountain of progress bubbles with bureaucracy and a hint of fizz.
-K A Solaman

Contaminated rum

#Contaminated rum

The issue of contaminated rum among Jawan rum users in Kerala is a matter of grave concern. It predominantly affects individuals from low socioeconomic backgrounds. 

The responsibility for the contamination lies with multiple stakeholders, including both the producers of the rum and regulatory authorities responsible for ensuring the safety and quality of consumable products. Producers must adhere to strict quality control measures to prevent such incidents. And  regulatory bodies should enforce rigorous inspections and standards to safeguard public health. Negligence on either front can lead to severe consequences for consumers, as evident in this case.

The health implications of consuming contaminated rum are dire, especially for individuals already facing economic hardships. The adverse effects could range from acute illnesses to long-term health complications. Addressing this issue requires not only immediate medical attention and support for affected individuals but also comprehensive measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. 

Compensation should encompass medical expenses, rehabilitation support, and financial assistance to mitigate the socio-economic impact on affected people. Additionally, stringent enforcement of quality control measures and regulatory oversight is essential to uphold public health and prevent such incidents from recurring..

- K A Solaman

Unfair appointment

#Unfair #appointment.

The decision to grant KIIFB chief KM Abraham a Cabinet rank by the Kerala cabinet raises important legal and procedural questions. Although Cabinet holds significant governance authority, an individual's elevation to Cabinet rank generally follows established protocols and criteria. Without clarity on the specific motives for Abraham's promotion, concerns about transparency and adherence to established standards arise. Furthermore, any decision of this nature must ensure its legality and avoid controversies.

Additionally, the role of the governor in this context adds another level of complexity. For safeguarding the integrity of governance processes, the governor plays a crucial oversight role. Depending on constitutional provisions, the governor may have the power to approve or veto these appointments. The decision will likely be guided by legal advice and public interest considerations. Therefore, the governor's response will be crucial in determining the legitimacy of the Cabinet's decision to grant KM Abraham ministerial rank.

KM Abraham is second in queue before ED, after former finance minister Thomas Isaac for his involvement in the Masala bond scam. When the state lacks money to even conduct school examinations, it is highly irregular to grant Cabinet rank to a retired officer, which involves a huge financial burden on the exchequer.

KA Solaman

0bstratucting rice distribution

#Obstructing rice distribution.

A report from Thrissur  says that Police has obstructed the sale of Bharat Rice in Mullassery. The police explained that the distribution of Bharat Rice was stopped because, the by-elections in the Mallassery.Panchayat were close by. By-elections in the seventh ward of Mullassery Panchayat will be held soon This decision led to a confrontation between the police and BJP workers there. Following this, the police withdrew from stopping the distribution of Bharat Rice.

Blocking Bhara rice distribution by the police in Thrissur ahead of a panchayat ward election raises concerns about the politicization of welfare programs. While ensuring fair elections is crucial, interfering with essential services like rice distribution can disproportionately affect vulnerable populations who depend on such support. By blocking the distribution, authorities risk exacerbating food insecurity among those in need. It potentially compromise their right to access basic necessities.

On the other hand, election codes of conduct aim to maintain a level playing field and prevent undue influence on voters. Distributing rice during an election period could be perceived as an attempt to sway voters in favor of a particular candidate or party. However, the enforcement of such rules should be proportionate and considerate of the impact on the welfare of citizens. Therefore, a critical analysis should weigh the necessity of maintaining electoral integrity against the potential harm caused by disrupting essential services.

Bharat Rice, a central government initiative was being sold at Rs 29 per kg. The state-level distribution occurred in Thrissur, coinciding with the national-level inauguration in Delhi. The Kerala government had anticipated that Bharat Rice would be distributed through ration shops or Supplyco, but this did not happen, resulting in the government missing out on potential commissions. This has probably angered the Kerala government. Hence all the controversies and conflicts regarding the distribution of Bharat Rice surface.

Remember, rice distribution is not a big developmental activity like constructing a road or a bridge. The voters can survive without a road but not without food.

-K. A Solaman

Killing of Arathi

#Killing of woman

An young lady by name Arathi was mercilessly petrol burned and killed by her husbandd yesterday in Cherthals, Kerala. This cruel act is a pervasive issue of gender-based violence.

Such an egregious act is not merely an isolated incident. It is a symptom of larger systemic problems, including patriarchal structures that perpetuate unequal power dynamics between men and women. The underlying reasons behind such brutality often stem from a combination of factors. These factors include toxic masculinity, cultural norms that condone violence against women, drug abuse  and the failure of institutions to adequately address domestic abuse.

Furthermore, this act highlights the urgent need for comprehensive measures to prevent and address gender-based violence. Legal reforms, education initiatives, and community interventions are to be strengthened.  Efforts must be made to challenge harmful gender stereotypes and promote respectful relationships based on equality and mutual respect. The authorities must ensure that perpetrators of such heinous crimes are held accountable. And for this our legal systems should  swift and effective.  

Finally these type of news should not be given wide publicity through channels and dailies.

-K A Solaman

Sita and Akbar

#Sita and Akbar

The naming of a lioness 'Sita' and a lion 'Akbar' at the Siliguri zoo reflects a problematic trend. This practice violates the inherent dignity of animals by reducing them to simple caricatures. It also perpetuates stereotypes and reinforces cultural biases.

Naming a lioness after Sita, a revered figure in Hindu mythology, and a lion after Akbar, a historical Mughal emperor, and keeping them together can be seen as a calculated attempt to hurt the religious sentiments of some people. Additionally, such naming practices can contribute to the distortion of cultural narratives and misunderstandings about wildlife conservation.

By reducing animals to homonyms of human figures, attention is diverted from the ecological importance of these species. What we need is urgent protection of these animals' habitat.

Although it seems harmless, the naming of animals in zoos should be approached with care. Otherwise, it would lead to communal hatred and unwarranted discussions like “Love Jihad” among animals.

-KA Solaman

Discord

#Discord

Tension between Higher Education Minister R. Bindhu, also pro-chancellor, and Mohan Kunnumel, acting vice-chancellor, reached a boiling point during the Kerala University Senate meeting. As the room buzzed with impatience, Bindhu's authoritarian stance clashed with Kunnumel's determination. This created an atmosphere of palpable discord.

The gap between the two personalities, each with their own vision for the future of the university, cast a shadow over the process. This leaves many uncertain about the direction of the institution.

Despite attempts to maintain decorum, the impasse became increasingly apparent as Bindhu questioned Kunnumel's decisions and leadership style. However, legal experts are not in favor of Minister Bindu's action.

The outcome of this confrontation would reverberate across the entire higher education landscape in Kerala. The attitude of students seeking foreign universities ignoring those in Kerala cannot be categorically disputed.

-K A Solaman

Black Flag demonstration

#Black flag demonstration

The recent black flag protest organized by the Students Federation of India (SFI) against Governor Arif Mohammed Khan in Kerala is indeed deplorable. Although protests are a fundamental aspect of democratic societies, the use of black flags to symbolize opposition can be considered disrespectful and undermines the decorum of civil discourse.

 Additionally, targeting a constitutional authority such as the governor sets a worrying precedent. This risks eroding the principles of governance and respect for institutional roles. It is imperative that all stakeholders engage in respectful dialogue and defend the democratic values ​​that underpin our society.

The protest also reflects broader tensions within Kerala's political landscape. It highlights polarization and ideological divisions. The SFI and other political actors should seek avenues for meaningful dialogue and debate to address grievances.

And why the Chief Minister is still not condemning his party's student wing's protest against the Governor seems curious. CM's single word NO was enough to end the SFI black flag protest and the resulting street brawl between students and police.

-K A Solaman

Rahul Gandhi's Role

#Rahul Gandhi's role?

The role of Rahul Gandhi within the Indian National Congress has been subject to both scrutiny and debate. While he holds the position of Member of Parliament for the Congress party, his influence on party policies and decision-making processes has often been perceived as surpassing his official title. 

There are  criticisms  regarding the concentration of power within Rahul Gandhi's hands, particularly in instances where his decisions appear to override those of the officially designated leadership, such as the Congress President and higher offices. This perceived centralization of authority has led to internal tensions and factionalism within the party. 

Moreover, questions have been raised about the efficacy of party democracy under Rahul Gandhi's leadership. Ultimately, while his influence within the Congress party is undeniable, the extent to which he can unilaterally shape party policies at the expense of established party structures remains a contentious issue.

-KA Solaman

Court Fee

#Huge fee hike in Kerala courts

The substantial fee hike in Kerala courts is likely to have a profound impact on the economically disadvantaged segments of society. With the increased financial burden, accessing justice becomes significantly more challenging for individuals already struggling to make ends meet. 

For many, the courts serve as a last resort for resolving disputes or seeking redressal, but the exorbitant fees could effectively bar them from seeking legal recourse. This exacerbates the existing inequalities within the legal system, where the ability to pay often determines the extent of one's access to justice.

Furthermore, the fee hike risks widening the gap between the wealthy and the poor in terms of legal representation and access to fair trials. Those unable to afford the escalated fees may opt for inadequate legal representation undermining the principle of equality before the law. The  government should consider ensuring equitable access to justice for all citizens, regardless of their financial circumstance.

-K A Solaman

ബാഹ്യനിയമവിദഗ്ധർ

സ്വന്തമായി അഡ്വക്കേറ്റ് ജനറലും അസിസ്റ്റൻ്റുമാരും ഉണ്ടായിട്ടും കേരള സർക്കാർ ഉയർന്ന വേതനം പറ്റുന്ന അഭിഭാഷകരെ നിയമിക്കുന്ന വിഷയം നിയമവ്യവസ്ഥയ്ക്കുള്ളിലെ സുതാര്യതയും ഉത്തരവാദിത്തവും സംബന്ധിച്ച് ആശങ്ക ഉളവാക്കുന്നു

ഗവൺമെൻ്റിന് സ്വന്തം നിയമവിദഗ്ധർ ഉള്ളപ്പോൾ പൊതു പണം ബാഹ്യ നിയമോപദേശത്തിനായി തിരിച്ചുവിടുന്നതിനാൽ, ഇത്തരത്തിലുള്ള സമ്പ്രദായം പക്ഷപാതത്തിലാ അഴിമതിക്കോ കാരണമാകുന്നു.  ചെലവേറിയ ബാഹ്യ നിയമനങ്ങൾക്ക് അനുകൂലമായി ആന്തരിക സംവിധാനങ്ങൾ അവഗണിക്കാനുള്ള തീരുമാനം അഡ്വക്കേറ്റ് ജനറലിൻ്റെ ഓഫീസിൻ്റെ കഴിവുകളിലുള്ള വിശ്വാസമില്ലായ്മയെയോ പുറംകരാറിന് പിന്നിലെ ഗൂഢലക്ഷ്യങ്ങളെയോ സൂചിപ്പിക്കുന്നു.

കൂടാതെ, ഉയർന്ന പ്രതിഫലം വാങ്ങുന്ന ബാഹ്യ അഭിഭാഷകരുടെ സേവനം സർക്കാരിന് നൽകുന്ന നിയമപരമായ പ്രാതിനിധ്യത്തിൻ്റെ ഗുണനിലവാരത്തിൽ വിട്ടുവീഴ്ച ചെയ്യാനിടയുണ്ട്. ഈ അഭിഭാഷകർക്ക് കാര്യമായ വൈദഗ്ധ്യം ഉണ്ടായിരിക്കുമെങ്കിലും, സർക്കാരിൻ്റെ സ്വന്തം നിയമ സംഘവുമായി താരതമ്യപ്പെടുത്തുമ്പോൾ സംസ്ഥാനത്തിൻ്റെ താൽപ്പര്യങ്ങളോടുള്ള അവരുടെ വിശ്വസ്തതയും പ്രതിബദ്ധതയും ചോദ്യം ചെയ്യപ്പെട്ടേക്കാം. ഈ സാഹചര്യം  പൊതുനന്മയെക്കാൾ വ്യക്തിപരമായ നേട്ടങ്ങൾക്ക് മുൻഗണന നൽകുന്നതിലേക്ക് നയിച്ചേക്കാം. കൂടാതെ, ഈ ബാഹ്യ അഭിഭാഷകർക്ക് നൽകുന്ന അമിതമായ ഫീസ് പൊതു ഖജനാവ് ചോർത്തുകയും മറ്റ് അടിയന്തിര ആവശ്യങ്ങൾക്കായി വിഭവങ്ങൾ അനുവദിക്കാനുള്ള സർക്കാരിൻ്റെ കഴിവിനെ തടസ്സപ്പെടുത്തുകയും ചെയ്യും. പുറത്തുനിന്നുള്ള നിയമവിദഗ്ധർക്ക് നൽകുന്ന ഫീസിൽ നിന്ന് കമ്മീഷൻ 

തട്ടാനുള്ള സാധ്യതയും തള്ളിക്കളയാനാവില്ല.

ലീഗൽസംവിധാനങ്ങളിലെ നിയമനങ്ങളിൽ ഉത്തരവാദിത്തവും നീതിയും പ്രോത്സാഹിപ്പിക്കേണ്ടത് സർക്കാരിൻ്റെ ഉത്തരവാദിത്തമാണ്. അങ്ങനെ ചെയ്യുന്നതിലൂടെ സർക്കാരിന് അതിൻ്റെ നിയമവ്യവസ്ഥയുടെ സമഗ്രത ഉയർത്തിപ്പിടിക്കാൻ കഴിയും.

-കെ എ സോളമൻ

External counsels

#External counsels

The issue of appointing highly paid advocates by the Kerala Government, despite having its own Advocate General and assistants, raises concerns about transparency and accountability within the legal system. 

This kind of practice potentially indicates favoritism or corruption, as it diverts public funds towards external legal counsel when the government already has legal experts in-house. The decision to overlook internal resources in favour of expensive external hires suggests a lack of trust in the capabilities of the Advocate General's office or possible ulterior motives behind the selection process.

Furthermore, the use of highly paid external advocates could also compromise the quality of legal representation provided to the government. While these advocates may possess significant expertise, their loyalty and commitment to the state's interests may be questioned compared to the government's own legal team. This situation could lead to conflicts of interest or the prioritization of personal gain over the public good. Additionally, the exorbitant fees paid to these external advocates drain public coffers and may hinder the government's ability to allocate resources to other pressing needs. The chances for getting  commission from the fee paid to external legal experts cannot be ruled out.

It is the responsibility of the government to promote accountability and fairness in legal appointments. And in doing so the government can uphold the integrity of its legal system.

-K A Solaman

Waste of man-hours in Yatras

#Waste of man hours Yatras

The waste of man-hours in Kerala Yatras before elections has been a longstanding concern, with political parties organizing large-scale rallies and processions that disrupt normal daily activities and cause significant productivity losses. These Yatras, or political marches, often involve thousands of participants leading to a substantial drain on resources and time.

The proliferation of Yatras also raises questions about their effectiveness in influencing voter decisions. Moreover, the environmental impact of these events, including traffic congestion and waste generation, further compounds the negative consequences of such mass mobilizations. 

As Kerala grapples with the need for more efficient and sustainable election campaigning methods, there is a growing call for parties to explore alternatives other than Yatras that minimize loss and disruptions

-K A Solaman

isaac &ED

#Isaac and ED

Former Kerala Finance Minister Thomas Isaac's decision not to appear before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) warrants careful consideration. 

His refusal raises questions about accountability and transparency. While Isaac's actions may be seen as a protest against perceived overreach by central agencies, they could also be interpreted as an attempt to evade scrutiny. As a public official, Isaac has a responsibility to cooperate with legitimate inquiries and uphold the rule of law, regardless of political affiliations or perceptions of bias. By declining to appear before the ED, he risks undermining public trust in the integrity of governmental institutions.

The impasse  between Isaac and the ED underscores deeper tensions within India's federal structure and the delicate balance between state and central authority. While it is essential to safeguard states' rights and prevent the misuse of investigative powers, it is equally vital to ensure accountability and uphold the principles of transparency and justice. 

-K A Solaman

Bharat rice & Federalism

#Bharat Rice and Federalism

In India, rice is not just a staple food; it's a lifeline for millions of people. Recognizing its importance, various initiatives have been implemented over the years to ensure the equitable distribution of rice across the nation. One such significant effort is the Bharat Rice Distribution Initiative.

When state governments fail in rice and other essential commodities distribution, it undermines the principles of federalism in India. The Bharat rice distribution system, which aims to ensure food security across the nation, encounters significant challenges when state governments are unable to effectively manage their responsibilities. This failure not only disrupts the smooth functioning of the distribution mechanism but also highlights the need for better coordination and accountability between the central and state authorities. 

Instead of blaming the Centre for their direct rice distribution, the Kerala food minister GR Anil should  take necessary steps to streamline the functions of the State owned Supplyco. And for this suppliers of food items to Supplyco must be immediately paid their dues by the state government. The talk about federalism by the minister will come only next

-K A Solaman

Delhi Strike

#Delhi strike

The recent strike organized by the Kerala Left Political Front along with other parties in Delhi has sparked debates over its pros and cons.

Strikes often attract media attention and have undoubtedly brought attention to issues concerning the state. The collective action of coming together for a common cause can create a feeling of empowerment. However, the CPM-led agitation did not get help from the Congress, the country's main opposition party.

Though this strike has not affected businesses, livelihoods and overall productivity. In the state, the money spent on transportation to Delhi, stay and other acts resulted in financial loss to the exchequer. Moreover, the strike in Delhi had no valid reason. The argument about 

 insufficiency of the financial assistance provided to the State by the Centre  was categorically refuted by the Minister of Finance in Parliament.

Despite the exacerbation of political polarization and the deepening of divisions, the Delhi strike has no other impact. Moreover, the dubious financial dealings of Exalogic company owned by Pinarayi's daughter also became a topic discussion during the strike.

-K A Solaman

Dubious Plan B

#Dubious Plan B

The strengths of the Kerala government viz. Kit and KIIFB are gone. Father of KIIFB TM' Thomas Isaac, who collected money with Masala Bond at an interest rate of 9.72 percent and deposited in the state at 2 percent less, found no place in the Nava Kerala budget of KN Balagopal.

Union minister and BJP leader V Muraleedharan says the current Kerala budget is a big farce. The state does not have realistic plans to improve its capital expenditures and financial situation. They do not hesitate to spend half a crore on agitation in Delhi.

CPI ministers in the cabinet are against the budget because their ministries have not received adequate financial assistance. They are apparently ungrateful despite the great hospitality at Navakerala Sadass where they are served every taste of food available in the state.

The most important points of the budget, such as developing the state, creating employment and investment opportunities and challenging the recession, remain directionless.

At the same time, Balagopal launched a scathing attack on the central government, accusing it of causing financial difficulties in Kerala. But in fact, the Kerala government has not submitted a statement of expenditure approved by the CAG. Instead, he threatens the Union government with what is called Plan B.

No one in the Kerala cabinet knows what plan B is. As plan B is dubious, the budget that contains plan B  is also dubious and directionless. The name Kerala itself is sufficient for this state and the name Nava Kerala is not necessary.

 KA Solaman

K-Rail is bearing fruit

#K-Rail is bearing fruit.

It is known to all that K-Rail of the Kerala government was an unfeasible project which does not serve any particular purpose for the commuters of Kerala. It runs parallel to the Indian Railway, causing unforeseen damage to the current traffic system.

The Kerala government’s push for the One Lakh crore K-Rail project was bound to siphon off borrowed money. Ultimately, the project was abandoned and the employees delegated to the project were asked to go to their parent departments.

However, there is an added benefit to laying down K-Rail stones and beating agitators hard. The Union Finance Minister, while presenting the Interim Budget 2024, said that Kerala would receive a one-time outlay of Rs 2,744 crore for several railway infrastructure and security projects. Without the K-rail fiasco, Kerala will not get this kind of care from the Centre.

-K A Solaman