Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan Writes To PM Modi Over Denial Of Clearance For State Health Minister's Kuwait Visit

In a letter dated June 15, Vijayan expressed his dissatisfaction, stating that the lack of clearance "goes against the principles of cooperative federalism".

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has raised concerns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the denial of clearance for state Health Minister Veena George to travel to Kuwait in the wake of the fire accident. The purpose of George's visit was to coordinate relief efforts following the mishap that claimed the lives of 45 Indians in the Gulf nation.

In a letter dated June 15, Vijayan expressed his dissatisfaction, stating that the lack of clearance "goes against the principles of cooperative federalism." He urged the Prime Minister to instruct the External Affairs Ministry (EAM) to be more responsive to similar requests in the future.

The letter, which was made public on Wednesday, detailed Vijayan’s disappointment with the EAM's non-response, which resulted in George being unable to travel to Kuwait. "Her presence in Kuwait would have helped substantially in liaisoning with the Union Minister of State for External Affairs, the team of officials, and the Embassy. This could have provided mental relief and confidence to the families of those who were affected by the unforeseen tragedy," Vijayan wrote.

Vijayan emphasized that the intention behind his letter was not to create controversy during a time of distress but to fulfill the state government's duty by bringing the issue to the Prime Minister's attention. He highlighted that the State Cabinet's collective decision was overlooked and that the request for political clearance was made in accordance with the Cabinet Secretariat’s Office Memorandum dated February 28, 2023.

"The present request amply falls within the purview of compelling circumstances and non-consideration of the same clearly goes against the principles of cooperative federalism in which the Union and the States are equal partners in the pursuit of development as well as in mitigation efforts, when our people face disasters and calamities," Vijayan stated.

Vijayan underscored that no political or other considerations should impede the issuance of political clearances in such critical situations. He stressed that decisions should be made impartially to avoid any perception of bias.

"I request the Prime Minister to advise the Ministry for External Affairs to be more responsive to such requests in the future, as the goodwill between the Union and the States is a crucial determinant for creating the environment of healthy cooperative federalism," Vijayan concluded.