‘Vikasana Sadassu’ initiative of Thiruvananthapuram Corporation inaugurated

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has called for a united stand among all political parties in developmental projects beneficial to the State. He was speaking after inaugurating the ‘Vikasana Sadassu’ programme of Thiruvananthapuram Corporation on Monday. Over the next month, in the run up to the upcoming local body elections, a series of events will be held across the State to popularise the achievements of various local self government bodies.

“Political differences should not adversely affect Kerala’s development. Those sitting in the Opposition in local bodies should also extend all possible support to developmental activities. But, it is unfortunate that those in responsible positions do not agree with this sometimes. The State government has not displayed any political differences in extending support to all local bodies equally. There has been no complaint from any local body in this regard. Unlike this, the State is being treated unfairly by the Union government which has been denying it support and funds,” said Mr. Vijayan.

He said the government embarked on organising ‘Vikasana Sadassu’ not just to take stock of the developmental activities taken up by the local bodies until now, but also to make a future developmental plan. The programmes are planned in such a way as to collect the opinions from the public, to know their needs and make plans accordingly.

“However, some local bodies have decided to not take part in this initiative. They should discard this narrow mindset and work towards formulating future projects,” he said.

Minister for Local Self-Governments M.B. Rajesh presided over the function. Mayor Arya Rajendran took part in an open forum held after the inauguration, in which the public raised various issues related to the city. Following a suggestion from one of the participants regarding the lack of enough venues to organise book releases or painting exhibitions free-of-cost for small-time writers and artists, Ms. Rajendran said that the Corporation would henceforth make available the EMS auditorium in the main office for the purpose.