Kerala CM Defends Using Private Chartered Flight for Flood-Relief Visit

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan has mounted a firm defense following public scrutiny over his decision to use a private chartered aircraft to travel to flood-ravaged regions in Malappuram. Addressing the media in the state capital on Wednesday, the Chief Minister clarified that the state exchequer did not bear any costs for the journey, asserting that the trip was facilitated by an acquaintance.

Addressing the Controversy

The controversy erupted after it was revealed that CM Satheesan traveled from Thiruvananthapuram to Karipur airport on September 21 via a private jet. The primary objective of the trip was to visit Nilambur, where extreme weather conditions and flash floods had recently claimed the lives of six individuals.

During the press briefing, Satheesan confirmed that the flight was offered to him by an individual known to him, though he declined to publicly disclose the benefactor’s identity. “There is no benefit in involving their name in this discourse. It is common knowledge who owns such aircraft in our state. If an individual offers the Chief Minister a ride to reach an emergency situation promptly, there is no impropriety in accepting,” he stated.

The Chief Minister dismissed allegations of potential conflicts of interest, emphasizing that his administration would not be compromised by the gesture. “Tomorrow, these aircraft owners are not going to approach the government for special favors, and this is certainly not a government that would grant such favors even if they did,” he added.

Priorities and Fiscal Prudence

Reflecting on the urgency of the situation, Satheesan argued that his physical presence in Malappuram was essential to coordinate relief efforts and offer support to the families of the deceased. He noted the irony of the criticism, stating, “Six people lost their lives. If I had chosen not to visit, the same people questioning my mode of travel would have been the first to ask why the Chief Minister was absent from the site of the tragedy.”

Regarding the use of public resources, the Chief Minister clarified that the Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF) is strictly reserved for supporting disaster victims and is not intended to cover the travel expenses of state officials.

State Helicopter Policy

The Chief Minister also shed light on why a state-sanctioned helicopter was not utilized for the mission. He revealed that the government had allowed the previous contract for a police-rented helicopter to expire on September 19.

“We decided not to renew that agreement under the existing terms,” Satheesan explained. “The contract stipulated a monthly payment of ₹80 lakhs regardless of whether the helicopter was actually deployed or remained grounded. It was a substantial and unnecessary financial burden on the state, and we are not prepared to continue with such arrangements.”

Support for Cabinet Colleague

In addition to addressing his own travel, the Chief Minister defended Cabinet Minister KM Shaji, who recently faced criticism for using a luxury vehicle owned by a friend. Satheesan maintained that the arrangement was above board, explaining that the Protocol Department had granted formal permission for the Minister to utilize a private vehicle after his official car suffered a mechanical failure.

By addressing these concerns, the Chief Minister signaled his intention to move past the controversy and focus on the ongoing recovery efforts in the flood-affected districts.

Disclaimer: This content is auto-generated for informational purposes only.

Source: Read Original News