New Delhi (Economy India): The Indian National Congress on Sunday distanced itself from senior leader Mani Shankar Aiyar following his remarks suggesting that Pinarayi Vijayan would “continue” as the Chief Minister of Kerala.
The party clarified that Aiyar has had no formal association with the Congress for the past several years and that his statements reflect his personal views, not the party’s position.
“Aiyar has had no connection whatsoever with the Congress in recent years. Whatever he speaks or writes is purely in his personal capacity,” Congress sources said, responding to the controversy triggered by his comments ahead of the Kerala Assembly elections.
The Congress also reiterated its confidence in the electorate of Kerala, asserting that voters would bring the United Democratic Front (UDF) back to power in the state to ensure what it described as more responsible, accountable, and people-centric governance.
“The people of Kerala are looking for change. The UDF is fully prepared to return to power with a strong mandate,” party leaders said.
Earlier on Sunday, Aiyar had expressed confidence that Vijayan, who represents the Communist Party of India (Marxist), would continue as the Chief Minister after the upcoming polls. His remarks drew sharp reactions within political circles, prompting the Congress to issue a clarification distancing itself from the statement.
Kerala’s political contest is expected to be closely fought, with the ruling Left Democratic Front and the Congress-led UDF positioning themselves aggressively ahead of the Assembly elections.
(Economy India)
