Laddoo politics.

Several thousand of saffron coloured laddoo were consumed by BJP men as Narendra Modi lead their party to a spectacular win in the election. However, those laddoos brought in Thiruvananthapuram and Kasargod were packed back because of little takers. The BJP candidates Rajagopal and Surendran lost the battle in these constituencies. Interestingly the green laddoos distributed at Malappuram and Ponnani got lots of takers. Green is the accepted colour of Muslim League, hence their laddoos are made green and their school tops too.

More interesting is the eating of laddoo by grouchy duo, L.K. Advani and Sushma Swaraj, who arrived on time to receive Narendra Modi on his first visit to the party headquarters as Prime Minister-designate. The pair, who had tried to damn Modi with faint praise after election, made themselves available for photo-session to celebrate party victory. Nevertheless, the irrepressible lot are the  BJP cadres who are furious at Advani and Sushma for their wet blanket response to government postings. Presumably the cadres are uncaring people who blind fully ignored the great sacrifice made by Advani in building up the party.

 So it is time for cadres to apologize and to recognize that a smooth sail of Modi government is only possible with the whole hearted support of Advani, Sushama and Murli Manohar Joshi. Unlike thoughtless cadres the clever Modi could understand all these specifics.

K A Solaman 

Comprehensive win

While one can say that it was the better marketing strategy of Mr. Modi’s that propelled the BJP to power, the mandate seems to be more a reaction to the large-scale corruption unleashed by the UPA, a sluggish economy and price rise. On many an occasion, the government looked ineffective. There were also many flip-flops on welfare schemes, an example being the Aadhar-linking exercise.

K.A. Solaman,

Alappuzha

The Hindu Published on 17-5-2014

UPA defeat.(Enough is enough)

Enough is enough

It is not only the better marketing strategy of Modi that brought a thumping victory to the BJP but also the harm done by the UPA government to the common people. The UPA was ineffective on many occasions, for instance when the oil companies repeatedly hiked the oil price.

There was an anti-UPA sentiment among the middle and poor classes due to the government’s economy policies and the exorbitant price rise. The UPA’s Aadhaar-linked exercise was painful and it was not able to live up to the expectations of the common people. Another important point is that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh never bothered to control his ministerial colleagues when there were reports of several scams. And when NDA with the support of the media projected Modi as the next prime minister, the Congress never bothered to project Rahul Gandhi similarly. So the people of India decided: “Enough is enough. Let us experiment with the NDA for the next five years!”

KA Solaman

Alappuzha

The Hindu business Line Published on 17 May 2014

Easy loan to common man?

Kerala Chief Minister Ommen Chandy taking steps for availing loans to the common man at low interest rates is welcome. He said”steps will be taken for availing loans at low interest rates. The State Bankers’ committee meeting will be convened on May 22 to discuss the matter.” The CM has taken such a decision on the back drop of suicide  of a few people who fell in the trap of blade mafia in the state. Nevertheless, the feasibility of CM’s step for easy loan is doubtful.

The blade men issue loan to without much guarantee. Their only guarantee is the quotation gang that collect the pay back. Even high-tech bankers, name to none, resort to this method to get back the dues. The nationalized banks, banks in the cooperative sector, or the KSFE could not lend money without proper guarantee. And the process of giving guarantee takes time and hence quick and easy loan as practiced by blade men is not possible for any financial institution under government control. This means minister’s step is only a soothing remark without any viability.

Also the statement that steps should be taken to speed up disbursement of loans by the Matsyafed and Kudumbasree project is also doubtful. How could a cash-crunchy state exchequer lend easy loan to people?

The bankers who issued education loans on the basis of the rhetoric of  certain ministers are now in doldrums because of non-repayment.  And in that context no banker would undertake easy loan to common people who have only sky above and earth below.

K A Solaman

Exit poll obsession

 Many people are jobless and waste time watching TV channels that telecast exit poll results. Most often, exit poll outcomes are contradictory to the actual election results. The hype given to these surveys is unwarranted. For instance, one of the exit poll surveyors has endorsed 18 seats in Kerala to UDF, while another admits only 12. It is time to prevent the exit poll obsession.

There should be some law in place against those surveyors pitching half-truths or no truths.

KA Solaman  Kerala

The Hindu Business line published on 15-5-2014

Welcome initiative by Kudumbasree.

It is of high welcome that Kerala women network 'Kudumbasree' is going join the drive against the sale and distribution of illegal liquor in the state. Women are the most sufferers of the liquor abuses in the state and if they plan a workout to contain this menace that would save many families especially that of low strata income.

The laborers and daily wage owners waste more than half of their income for consuming liquor and taking lottery tickets. The women and children solely depending on the daily income often fall in despair because of liquor consumption of the earning member. However, it is doubtful to get support from Marxist party and a section of the Congress for this endeavor as most the sellers and workers related to liquor are strong supporters of these parties.. Can anyone find a toddy shop in the state without a red flag fluttering in front of it?

If Kudumbasree mission, which has a strong volunteer base at the grass root level, could help agencies involved in the anti-illegal liquor drive it could avert many house hold crimes, nevertheless its feasibility is bleak.

K A Solaman

The New Indian Express published on 15-5-2014

Poor educational practices in Kerala private colleges.

Academic activities in colleges across Kerala have been badly hit by large-scale vacancies in various faculties. Many colleges have been facing an acute shortage of teachers with several vacancies.

Though permission to various colleges to fill up vacancies has been given, they make it as good opportunity to collect money by way application money from innumerable job seekers. It is the practice of some private college managements to post none after conducting interview. The five member interview board with one government nominee and a subject expert is a farce as these members dance in tune with other three of the management in the board after getting a five star hospitality.  After the interview, posts are held vacant for always with no permanent faculty. The classes are then run by guest faculty with meager salary and hence managements can often notify the vacancy for collecting application money. The fee for single application for appointment in private colleges in Kerala about Rs 800 and if a college receives 100 applications for a single post it makes Rs 80000 per subject. If there are ten subjects the sum collected is Rs 8 lakh and that too without filling a single post. This ordeal is repeated and the losers are those candidates with NET qualification and Ph D.

The colleges engaging lecturers on contractual basis should be abandoned. Teaching is a noble profession that needs total dedication and  for which the guest faculty and retired teachers are unfit. It is high time for higher education department in Kerala to investigate the bad practices taken up by the private college managements.

A candidate from a different community appeared for an interview in a private college had to answer only questions of the sort: “Why did you waste money? Don’t you know our practice? Could you find any one in our colleges outside our community? So, take tea and leave the place. This job is not for people like you”.

All in the education sector know this but who cares?

K A Solaman

Usman searching for a way out.

Thee Mahila Congress leader Shanimol Usman has crossed all limits with her letter accusing the KPCC President V M Sudheeran. No doubt Ms Usman’s letter is a part of conspiracy against Sudheeran who keeps firm stand on the liquor policy. Shanimol’s opponent A A Shukkoor, the Alappuzha District Congress Committee President, is a strong opponent of a liquor baron in the locality. 

A section of the Congress party in the state demands a ‘practical approach’, like adding water to liquor, in the liquor policy. And for them in the direct fight with Sudheeran, a woman on the front line is a shield and thus Usman became a pawn for them. Usman’s letter, therefore, is based on a conspiracy and three-member party committee set up to probe the entire episode would bring the truth. An action less than a total apology from Ms Usman would show the way out for her from the party.

K A Solaman

Chennithala’s ‘thara ‘formula.

After Lagrange’s interpolation formula one of the well known formulae is Chennithala formula for granting licence to 67 bars out of 418 bars which were denied licence by the honourable HC. Chennithala put up the formula that among the 418 bars, 67 bars come under the category of two star hotels and should be given the licence to open and a district collector led committee should inspect the quality of the other bars and those found wanting in facilities should be given a reasonable time frame to get things in order. This in effect is overriding the court verdict  and it will pressurise district collectors in taking decisions.
So in this regard KPCC President V.M Sudheeran’s stand that he could not agree with the formula mooted by Chennithala is bold and is in favour of the wishes of common people of the state. The UDF is on the way for a consensus and it should be for not opening these bars. The Chennithala formula is a ‘thara’ formula and this formula together with  other similar formulae should be outrightly rejected.

Any action to help people to stand on two legs rather than on four legs is good for the entire people of the state.

K A Solaman

Standard bar.

The sky will not fall if boozers of Kerala wait for some more time infront of Beverages outlets for their share. The K P C C President V M Sudheeran may be congratulated for his firm stand on the issue of liquor bar licences. It is not the SNDP, KCBC or the Muslim outfits to decide the Kerala liquor policy. The Yogam secretary’s comment that it is not the ministers but the KPCC president runs the government is a good compliment to Sudheeran, nevertheless, it demands no reply

.

KPCC president V.M. Sudheeran insisting on a policy that would reduce the number of liquor bars is in accordance with Congress party’s proclaimed policy of abstinence. Then why the Excise Minister and others think in a different line to give opportunity to bar owners to improve their standards within a stipulated time. What is after all the standard of a bar? Does it mean that in bar of high standard a boozer get it straightly to his mouth and not through glass?

K A Solaman 

No bar license, please

Seemingly the only major problem the UDF Government now faces in Kerala is the issue of allotting temporary licences to 418 bars in the state that were closed three weeks ago. Congress leaders like Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala, KPCC vice president V.D. Satheesan and Excise Minister K. Babu  who speak mouthful against anti-liquor policy, standing together opposing V M Sudheeran, is amazing.

It is known that the  Minister K Babu always speaks in favour of Abkaris and his opinion in this direction is one sided. At present without 418 bars all the boozers get sufficient liquor and there is no decrease in State revenue by way of selling liquor. Then why this haste from others including Chief Minister in settling the issue? So in that context Sudheeran's  stand that no bar licences should be renewed unless required standard is met, is correct.

K A Solaman

Front page for good news.

It is of bad precedence to see ‘Total 4 U scam’ prime accused Sabarinath on the front page of NIE. This fellow is out and out a cheat who looted several crores in collusion with some bigwigs in Kerala politics.   Fugitive life of this guy for over three years was gone off in connivance with his political god fathers for which our investigating agencies were mute spectators.  Presumably this guy had received continuous messages from persons in Kerala who shared part of the money he looted.

A fraud with as many as 34 cases registered against and who swindled money   in tune with Rs 200 is a fit person for severe imprisonment. The news item about him should be put in some remote corners of our esteemed daily. The front page of the daily should be reserved for some good news.

K A Solaman

For a buck

Boby Chemmannur in Kerala has created an artificial wave with his ‘hard earned’money. There is a huge gathering for his State wide run. The media have been profusely benefited with Chemmannur run. Likewise Modi wave is an artificial wave created with money augmented from unknown sources. Spending several crores for his holographic image projection is a colossal waste when the pathetic state of the poor people of this country is considered.  Seemingly, the media, newspapers, event managers and multitude have been purchased  by NaMo men. 

K A Solaman

Modi in 3D

 

The UK company Musion has done a good business with Modi in 3D. Modi has appeared in holographi 3D before voters in several places to create a big visual impact, It is seemingly an exercise akin to ‘India shining’ performed by the BJP a few yers back.

The tall holographic images of Modi  were  projected simultaneously in various cities to make it easier for Modi to get his message across to more people without a physical presence. The idea  is a novel one for people other than  scientific community. The public impact of this innovation would be that of a magic and it is unwise to think that BJP get any adavntage over the Congress with this magic. People will watch this as a joke. So it is doubtful that Modi’s holographic projection campaign would bring any additional votes.

It is said that in the 3D projection, Modi walked onto the dais, sat on a chair, and even sipped water a few times, in order to create the impression that the projection was almost the real thing. And in the real world what is likely to happen after election  is Modi gasping for  water several times. And for that we have to wait until May 16! The NDA should remember that “too many cooks spoil the broth”.

K A Solaman 

Pawar to swallow his words.

The NCP leader Sharad Pawar comparing Modi to Hitler is gratuitous. What provoked Pawar to say like this is resulted from fear of defeat in the election. Everyone knows what happened to India during the 54 year rule of the Congress where Pawar was a part for most of the time.

Pawar, for quite long, was trying to jump out of the UPA to join the NDA , but Shiv Sena prevented. Now he has no other alternative other than abuse Modi and his party. Nevertheless if chance for a berth in Modi cabinet occurs Pawar will swallow his words and join the NDA as Agriculture Minister, for helping himself and his relatives!

K A Solaman.

Is Mamta the State?

Louis the Fourteenth, King of France is known for his famous quote 'État, c'est Moi!’ (I am The State!). This quotation is becoming more and more contested by historians because his reign was marked by huge steps in public rights. During his reign he imposed more restrictions on the people. Likewise the Chief Minister of W Bengal is quoting “ I am the State” by disobeying  Election Commission’s order to transfer officials on election duty. The Commission has removed seven of the election officials, including two additional district magistrates from their post but the CM is hesitant to comply.  

 As regards the posting of the poll officers and their shifting, the power is vested with the Commission and the only option for Mamta is to obey the Commission order. Mamta has no right to challenge the Commission.  Her statement:"Put me in jail. I will not remove a single officer as chief minister" is akin to King Louis XIV quote. Mamta should understand that after announcement of election, all election officers and police officers under the Representation of the People Act come under the superintendence, direction and control of the Election Commission and not under the Chief Minitster.

Mamta Banerji’s stand is unwarranted and hence punishable under the Representation of the People Act. What Mamta said is against the Constitution as she is “not the State”.

K A Solaman

Bad practice by Lieutenant colonel.(Actor campaign)

The lieutenant colonel of Indian Army Mohanlal asking votes for ‘AMMA’ president Innocent is a bad practice and in this respect I endorse the words of KPCC President V M Sudheeran. The Army personnel showing interest in direct politics is not good. Sudheeran asked Lal to step aside from campaigning for Innocent in Chalkkudi. However this doesn’t imply that the Congress leader P C Chacko is an eligible candidate for a win. Chacko was the Parliamentary committee leader who played all the tricks to hide the 2G scam.

The Malayalam cinema men, especially those under the title “AMMA” are a set who keep special interest in their personal motives. The act of actor Mohanlal, who is known for his ease with  Congress party, now asking vote for a pro-Marxist candidate is conspicuous. The actor should abstain from direct politics as long as he is attached to the Indian Army.

K A Solaman 
NIE published on 8-4-2014

What an idea, Sirjee!

While most of the top Congress leaders are abstaining from contesting the elections for fear of failure, defence minister AK Antony is hinting at the possibility of forming a fresh secular front with the Left to keep the BJP out of power. If Congress leaders are true to their secular credentials they should stop practising communal appeasement. Antony is asking the CPI(M) in Kerala to stop opposing the Congress; the Congress can return the favour. Making agreements with everyone to remain in power is a misguided move.

KA Solaman

Alappuzha

The Hindu Business Line Published on 1-4-2014

Old man’s pleasure

The court procedure is a cumbersome process for majority of the public and hence they try to opt out from it by all means. However, for the 90 plus leader of Opposition in Kerala, court proceedings are a matter of ecstasy.  He now approached the Kerala High Court seeking a CBI probe into the Solar Panel cheating case, in which Saritha Nair and Biju Radhakrishnan are the key accused. Achuthanandan also sought investigations by the Enforcement Directorate, the Corporate Affairs Department and the Income Tax Department into the source of the income of the accused persons.

One wonders why there is none other than Achuthanandan in the Marxist party to file case in a judicial forum, when there is no dearth for Central and State Committee members who are much younger than the veteran leader. It is not the petitioner but his counsel decides the course of a petition in the court.  Then, why the party still disturb the ‘grand old man’( courtesy Yogam Sceretary)  with all sleaze cases and legal trials?

K A Solaman 

Bizarre politicians.

Now only I understood the reason for the group rivalry of Congress party in Kerala. It was Madhusudan Mistry, the Congress candidate against Narendra Modi at Vadodara was the High Command representative in Kerala to take care of the party.

What Mistry did is enjoyable for a few moments. When all streets in Gujarat are reserved for Modi posters what Mistry could do other than fixing his poster on Modi posters? It is the duty of the Election Commission of India to provide some space for fixing Mistry posters.  Nevertheless, action of Mistry is  a disrespect to our democracy. When the leaders are corrupt and barefaced, what could one expect from chaps down the line?  And it is a matter of relief that Mistry, who was detained by the Modi police,   has been released on bail.

It is also interesting to see that Mistry is the person who taught  Rahul Gandhi the way to become a great leader. This implies that poor students have studied under very poor teachers. Bizarre are the ways of politicians in the country of greatest democracy.

K A Solaman
The New Indian Express published on 5April 2014

Boby-Maradonna run for gold.

Boby-Maradonna- Chemmanur  is not only a good gold merchant but a good runner also. If identified his talent a little earlier the country might have secured 2-3 gold medals in the International Olympics.  Boby’s run for the mission to create the world's largest blood bank is encouraging, nevertheless the feasibility of implementing the scheme is at stake. Those who register on line as blood donors will not be available at needs.  What I mean is: his run for the cause ‘ give blood, save lives’ and for creating the world’s largest blood bank,  is not meant for saving anybody’s life but to save himself, his gold business.

Mr Chemmanur in October 2012 had brought in Argentine football legend Diego Maradona as the brand ambassador of his jewelry in Kerala. Maradona inaugurated his Kannur showroom and a helicopter service, attracting huge crowd. Chemmanur  then offered  Boby - Maradona collection at his jewelry shops, giving an image that Mardonna is one of the sons of an Argentine goldsmith.  It was also heard that Boby Chemmanur was  in talks with another  Argentine footballer Lionel Messi to open a gold shop Boby-Messi collection. As Messi was very with his sports and unwilling to sponsor any unscrupulous gold vendor for a few bucks it has not been worked.

So, Chemmannur  with his ‘simple ancient’ attire ‘ chatta and mundu’ played ‘marvellous’ football against Mardonna in channels and now organized state-length run by spending a bit from his huge profit. And one would be stunned to see how Boby-Maradonna Chemmannur outshines all candidates for election when political parties are desperately doing hard work to take people to polling booths. Channels spend more time for Bobby-Maradonna run advertisement than Parliament election news.

How a self acclaimed gentleman ‘ caring the poor and the disabled’ could spend extravagantly in 600 km run for no cause though he says ‘ give blood, save lives’ ?

K A Solaman

Kaula- flavoring irritable moments

Kaula Food products claims that they make special, extensive range of food products of high quality with international standard. Nevertheless, with their unsightly channel advertisements they make Kerala men and women insatiable, hand rubbing, ugly creatures before food items. Have any doubt, keep open, if you can, your TV at their ad. Kaula is flavoring irritable moments.

K A Solaman 

Accepting defeat

While most of the top Congress leaders abstain from election contest by fear of possible failure Congress leader and Union defence minister A K Antony is in a jovial mood by hinting at the possibility of the formation of a fresh secular front with Left comrades to keep BJP out of power. This is of course an evil design by Antony’s party to stay in power.

If Congress leaders are true to their secular credentials then they should stop the communal appeasement as practised in Kerala. And if they need Left shoulder at the Centre they should avoid direct fight with the Lefts.  When Antony says that Congress's main rival in Kerala CPM will have to abandon its opposition to Congress to stave off the risk of BJP retaking the Centre, Congress can also do the same with CPM. This would result an easy walkover for them in an equal basis in the election. The time and money saved in this way will be much.

By Antony’s statement the Congress party has accepted their miserable defeat. They are now trying to woo smaller regional parties to stop Modi ‘tsunami’. The policy to regain the power by any means is a wrong one from puritan Antony. He is obsessed with the comfort of Defence Minister’s office and wishes for another term for an unbreakable record.  Making agreements with everyone to reign in power is a misguided move which will make Congress party soon a regional one.

K A Solaman

On Aadhaar

The Aadhaar project has been a most unfruitful endeavour. The UPA appears to have deliberately let this scheme run aground. What was the need for one more proof of identity when people already have voter IDs, ration cards, PAN cards and passports? One can almost say that Aadhaar was a type of hi-tech corruption that has (hopefully) ended with the Court’s ruling.

K.A. Solaman,

The Hindu published on 26 May 2014

Not Pak agents

Modi had never meant directly or indirectly that Antony is a Pakistan Agent. He was blaming UPA leaders including Antony that they are soft on Pakistan. Modi is now in a mood of teaching a lesson to Pakistan in their own coins. Nevertheless, if he comes to power he would also think on Antony's line. A war monger's label is detrimental to all politicians. Either the media is wrong or some mischievous element is misinterpreting his speech to bring that meaning. Antony's patriotism can never be questioned. Likewise Kejriwal's. Modi was in short attacking the strategy and the UPA's policy to Pakistan..

Neither Modi, nor Arvind or Antony should be labeled as pak agent. If politicians have bad mouth, it does not mean their supporters should take their side and become another bad mouth. Politicians should focus on development issues of the country and stop mudslinging each other.

K A Solaman
The New Indian Express published on 31-3-2014

Aadhaar fraud.

UPA government's much-hyped Aadhaar card is no more effective. The report of charges ranging between Rs 500 to Rs 2500, to make fake make Aadhaar card is stunning.  The Cobrapost has done a wonderful job by bringing out the fraud related to Aadhaar.

Aadhaar is the most ridiculous project by UPA wasting people’s money. About 4000 crores of rupees have been siphoned out for this useless endeavour.  SC has out rightly rejected this scheme for good. The UPA leaders  have no interest in anything except cornering as much of the national treasure as possible before they are thrown into trash of history. Their greed is evident in raising the price of petrol and gas along with Aadhaar fixing. What was the need for one more ID proof when people already have Voter ID, Ration cards, Pan cards or pass-ports? All that was needed is a single smart card with all relevant details. If updated a Voter ID is alone sufficient to meet all the requirements. Nandan Nilekani, a man once charged of sexual abuse of his subordinate, in the top of Aadhar  ruling, is alone sufficient for the fraud in this direction. A new type of high-tech corruption has come to an end by SC ruling. 

Aadhaar was indeed a fraud and money spent for it should be confiscated from persons behind it.

K A Solaman

United States of India- a misnomer

Though not many options, at least for one reason, the people of India should vote against the NDA for their association with MDMK chief Vaiko. Vaiko called for revoking the ban on LTTE and declared that if voted into power his government should call India as "United States of India", not Union of India. He stressed the need for a review of the Indian Constitution.

Vaiko is a joker of Indian Politics and BJP's alliance with him in Tamil Nadu will fail just after the election if not before. The PMK, DMDK, MDMK are all caste based parties and lead by fanatics. BJP may get 2 or 3 seats in Tamilnadu but, the alliance will be detrimental to them. India by any other name would mean the same as a name does not change anything. Vision, passion, conviction and execution are essential to create a proud and happy nation having great dignity. Hence change of name is irrelevant.

The Constitution of India proclaims India to be a sovereign, democratic republic where communal extremists and splinter groups  have little role.

K A Solaman

Denigration by former Speaker.

 CPM leader M. Vijayakumar’s statement to the effect that “Shashi Tharoor has a doctorate in violence against women” is shameful and against the election code of conduct. Defamation of a candidate of this sort not only damaged the standing of Vijayakumar as  ‘once good minister and an able Speaker of the Kerala Assembly’.

Vijayakumar’s act is an instance of denigration and slur being intentionally carried out to portray Tharoor as one who harmed women.

K A Solaman

Second disgusting creature!

First Bishop of Idukki thus became the second disgusting creature for politicians of Kerala. In an unwarranted Face book comment the bubbly MLA of the Congress party V T Balram called the Idukki Bishop as disgusting creature.

Actually Balram was studying for Pinarayi as it was Pinarayi on October 13, 2007, in a speech   referred Thamarassery  Bishop Mar John Chittilappally as a "disgusting creature". The abuse to the Bishop had come when he was referring to the statement that Thiruvambady MLA Mathai Chacko had received the church anointment of the sick despite his declared policy of atheism. The term ’disgusting creature’  was later repeated by Marxist leader M M Mani when  he was arrested for making a controversial statement in the Anjeri Baby case. Mani then lambasted Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan and P T Thomas calling them ‘disgusting creatures’. However he never called a Bishop in that tone.

The matter is, there is no difference between Marxists or Congress leaders in using abusive terms against the revered. And in this case Balaram has miserably tried to elevate himself as a 'tall leader' like Pinarayi.  Polticians of course need a code of conduct.

K A Solaman

Chacko is High Command

 

People often ask who the High Command of Congress party is. Some people say it is madam Soniayaji and some others think it is her son Rahulji.  And a few others think it is Antonyji and of course K V Thomasji as madam never ignore the words of these two faithful disciples. But with the choice of P C Chacko as the candidate for Chalakkudi parliament constituency it has been convincingly proved that Chacko is the real High Command.

It is heard that when Chacko informed party leadership that he is not ready to contest from Thrissur but willing to do it from Chalakkudi the High Command soon agreed. Chacko, a sitting MP of Thrissur  leaving the constituency for trivial reasons gives the notion that High Command proposes and Chacko disposes.  Then, who is the real High Command?

For LDF, Chalakkudi is a mislaid turf where even Politburo members could not even smoothly sail over. A guest artist like cine actor Innocent could do some sort of gimmick by his hard earned money, but it is not adequate to defeat a Congress candidate there. Being a cancer returnee, the people have some sympathy towards Innocent but it is unwise to think that this kindness would turn into votes. As V M Sudheeran has rightly put it the LDF have made this election a comic exercise by fielding ‘guest artists’ in several constituencies.

K A Solaman

Believe or not( Plank in the eye)

Of late the Democratic Youth Federation of India workers of Kerala are a confused lot.  They believe  solar accused Saritha Nair when she accuses Congress MLA A.P. Abdullakutty and disbelieves her words about Aisha Potty.  How could the veteran Marxist accused notorious liar( Mahakalli) become a honest woman for DYFI?
The DYFI workers manhandling Abdullakutty is a heinous act. The DYFI should make an introspection as there is no dearth for accused in sexual harassment in their party. Abdullakutty’s case is only a matter of few days. The people will soon forget it happened in many similar cases.

K A Solaman
The New Indian Express published on 15 Mar 2014

High cost

 The Election Commission had proposed to raise expenditure limits for Lok Sabha elections to a maximum of Rs 70 lakh and a minimum of Rs 54 lakh, and a maximum of Rs 28 lakh and a minimum of Rs 20 lakh for the assembly elections in the northeastern states. This would allow candidates to spend more on their poll campaigns. The EC agreed on the increased expense limits after political parties made a strong pitch in this regard at a recent meeting with top officials of the EC. Political parties had argued that the current limits were too meagre when the rise in prices on account of inflation was factored in. This seems like an unnecessary step. When the country is already in a dire situation because of high inflation, poll expenditure will put a further strain on the coffers. The EC should ensure transparency in the filing of asset details by candidates. Those found guilty of filing incorrect poll expense accounts should be brought to book.

K.A. Solaman,  Kerala

The Telegraph, Calcutta published on 4-3-2014

Death in the womb

The group of discontented elements, the Third Front, lead by the Left parties is no more. It met an unnatural death with in the womb. The two unmarried women, one from TN and other from WB squeezed the fetus to death.

Rationally speaking the left parties have lost all its relevance in the present day India. At every election they go around pleading everyone to join the third front so that they can appear to be an appropriate conglomeration before the people. But they end up as supporters of corrupt Congress leaders at critical junctures. Third front is nothing but a smoke screen and an unsolicited endeavor to save the Congress.

The attitude of Third Front leaders is very much amusing. Mulayam of UP hates English and Amma of TN hates Hindi. Mamta of WB hates CPM, and CPM lead by Karat has many factions in WB and Kerala. And most of these leaders have little or no sway in regions outside their own. It is unwise to expect a national outlook from Third Front leaders. Who is your PM?- the answer to this single question alone is sufficient to mark the death of Third Front. And this time no one got time to ask this question.

K A Solaman

Election comdey hit

Kerla politics is a mediocre circus without any value. This I say not because the chief whip P C George making all the hubub with his never to happen resignation from the UDF ministry or Kodiyeri Balakrishnanan offering chief minitster ship to K M Mani once the Lok Sabha election is over. It is because of the Marxist party cornering behind comedy cinema star and AMMA president Innocent asking to contest the Chalakudy Lok Sabha seat in Thrissur district for the party. Seemingly Marxist party is in acute dearth of able candidates, nevertheless, the women voters of Chalakkudy have to invariably use back pads to avoid the back slap of AMMA strikers who are likely to be in Chalakkudy to campaign for their president.  

Being a cancer-cured patient the people of Kerala have a little concern to Innocent and with his entry to election fray he is going to give up all the sympathy and concern he owes now. What sort of development works he is going to undertake once elected to the Parliament is any body’s guess as by this time, in his life; he has contributed not much to the public other than laughters with his foolish talks. And as an opponent to Innocent, the Congress may also, in tune with Marxist party, invite a person like Innocent, may be Jagathi Sreekuar or Suraj Venjaramood to contest making Chalakkudy election  an all-time commercial commedy hit.

K A Solaman
The New Indian Express published on 7-3-2014

N D Tiwari admits Rohit is his son

Veteran politician Narayan Dutt Tiwari  has finally admitted that Rohit Shekhar is his son. I congratulate Rohit Shekhar, son of N D Tiwari and  Ujjwala Sharma  for his quest to not be called a ‘bastard’. As no one is born without a father it is highly humiliating to use the word ‘bastard’ against a man. It was not Rohit Shekhar alone in the country who has gone through such a humiliating experience. Rohit is a trailblazer to many who had undergone bitter experiences. He once said: “I am not the illegitimate son, he(Tiwari) is my illegitimate father”. This is absolutely right.

High profile Congress leader ND Tiwari misused his political position and hence he should be asked to compensate for the wrong doings he has done to a woman and her son. The wishy-washy Tiwari has hoodwinked the entire country with his political poses as minister, governor etc, but finally admitted his fault.

Once again congratulations to Rohit Shekhar for 'giving birth' to his illegitimate father. There are no illegitimate sons, only illegitimate fathers.!

K A Solaman

Hartal against Kasturirangan.

It was Mullapperiyar issue then. The Kerala Congress minister and leader P J Joseph had  made much hue and cry about the dilapidated dam. The dam is still intact and the issue went into oblivion. Now his party’s main contention is over Kasturirangan report. All the clergies and laity of the eastern ghat now play against the implementation of Kasturirangan report. The Christian party conglomeration namely Kerala Congress in tune with political clergies makes all the hullaballoo. The minister K Mani and all time nuisance P C George  say they should resign if Kasturirangan report is not withdrawn. Then why, they are waiting? All these hubbubs will end up in silence once the election is over.

Meanwhile, it is interesting to note the inaction from judicial forums which prohibited bandhs and hartals. The hilly districts of Idukki and Wayanad had observed a dawn-to-dusk shutdown a few days back called by Left Democratic Front to press for the withdrawal of Kasturirangan committee report. This is the second shutdown in these districts since November. The court has not summoned the persons responsible for the violation of its verdict..

K A Solaman 

Needed new candidates for election

Election Commission of India has given permission to Lok Sabha poll candidates to spend more by raising the expenditure limits for parliamentary elections to a maximum of Rs 70 lakh for bigger states and Rs 54 lakh for smaller states. If not implemented strictly this gesture has no meaning. It is known to all that each candidate would spend more than seven crores. The filing of asset details by candidates should also be made meaningful as many submit zero or meagre balance while they enjoy five star hospitality in all walks.

It is also a bad practice among political parties in India to field candidates for the third or fourth time. As there are many youngsters to serve the country these old gooses should be shown their way out and new faces should be given opportunity.  And in this regard proposal by Rahul Gandhi is a welcome one.

Candidates declaring their assets and poll expenses dishonestly should be brought book and for that  EC of India should show ample courage.

K A Solaman 

K A Solaman's letters in The Tribune, Chandigarh

1. The Tribune, Chandigarh, India - Letters to the Editor

   5 Sep 2012 ... K A SOLAMAN, Alappuzha, Kerala. What justice? It brings solace that the culprits responsible for the Naroda Patiya riots have been awarded ... www.tribuneindia.com/2012/20120905/letters.htm - Cached - Similar

2. The Tribune, Chandigarh, India - Letters to the Editor

   23 Sep 2010 ... K.A. SOLAMAN, Kaithakkal, Alappuzha, Kerala. Step up vigil. I read the editorial, “Security concerns in Delhi” (Sept 21). The countdown for the ... www.tribuneindia.com/2010/20100923/letters.htm - Cached - Similar

3. The Tribune, Chandigarh, India - Letters to the Editor

   20 Apr 2013 ... KA SOLAMAN, Kerala. Disputes with Dhaka. The bomb attack on the official car of the Indian High Commissioner in Dhaka is a grim reminder ... www.tribuneindia.com/2013/20130420/letters.htm - Cached - Similar

4. The Tribune, Chandigarh, India - Letters to the Editor

   23 Mar 2013 ... KA Solaman,via email. Move court to get Guru's body. I am surprised to see the uproar in Jammu and Kashmir over returning the body of Afzal ... www.tribuneindia.com/2013/20130323/letters.htm - Cached - Similar

5. The Tribune, Chandigarh, India - Letters to the Editor

   18 Feb 2010 ... They queued up in thousands to watch the movie. The Shiv Sena must learn its lessons from its successive failures. K A SOLAMAN, Alappuzha ... www.tribuneindia.com/2010/20100218/letters.htm - Cached - Similar

6. The Tribune, Chandigarh, India - Letters to the Editor

   3 Mar 2012 ... K A SOLAMAN, Alappuzha. Jat protest. The Jat protestors have been sitting on a dharna on the Bhiwani- Hisar rail track for the past 10 days ... www.tribuneindia.com/2012/20120303/letters.htm - Cached - Similar

7. The Tribune, Chandigarh, India - Letters to the Editor

   21 Dec 2012... in temples and other places of worship. It should be diverted to feeding thepoor and educating them. KA SOLAMAN, Alappuzha, Kerala ... www.tribuneindia.com/2012/20121221/letters.htm - Cached - Similar

8. The Tribune, Chandigarh, India - Letters to the Editor

   20 Nov 2009 ... By denouncing Sachin's statement, Mr Thackeray is playing petty politics andneeds to be condemned by one and all. K A SOLAMAN ... www.tribuneindia.com/2009/20091120/letters.htm - Cached - Similar

9. The Tribune, Chandigarh, India - Letters to the Editor

   30 Jun 2010... prices because it will result in increase in the prices of all essentialcommodities and public transport. K.A. SOLAMAN,Kaithakkal, Kerala ... www.tribuneindia.com/2010/20100630/letters.htm - Cached - Similar

10. The Tribune, Chandigarh, India - Letters to the Editor

    17 Dec 2009 ... Mr Rao's demand for Telangana and Ms Mayawati's demand to trifurcate UP are only ploys for personal benefit. K A SOLAMAN, Alappuzha. www.tribuneindia.com/2009/20091217/letters.htm - Cached - Similar