Deputy Speaker election begins in Keralam Assembly, BJP MLAs abstain from voting
Thiruvananthapuram, June 2
Voting for the election of the Deputy Speaker of the Keralam Legislative Assembly began on Tuesday morning, with the ruling United Democratic Front and the opposition Left Democratic Front fielding their respective candidates for the post.
Notably, BJP legislators abstained from participating in the voting process.
Polling commenced at 9 am in the State Assembly in Thiruvananthapuram. UDF candidate Shanimol Osman is contesting against LDF nominee Muhammed Muhsin.
While BJP MLAs remained present in the House, they chose not to cast their votes and stayed seated during the election process, effectively abstaining from the contest.
The Deputy Speaker election comes days after Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar delivered the first policy address of the 16th Keralam Legislative Assembly, outlining the priorities of the newly formed UDF government led by Chief Minister VD Satheesan.
In his address on May 29, the Governor highlighted the government's plans for economic growth, welfare initiatives, public sector reforms, and measures to tackle the state's growing drug menace. Notably, the speech did not include criticism of the Union government, marking a departure from previous political narratives in the state.
Among the key announcements were the implementation of the UDF's flagship welfare promises, including free travel for women on KSRTC buses, a monthly allowance of Rs 1,000 for college-going female students, an increase in welfare pensions to Rs 3,000 per month, enhanced health insurance coverage for families, and interest-free loans for young entrepreneurs.
The Governor also highlighted "Operation Toofaan," a new anti-narcotics campaign aimed at dismantling drug trafficking networks across the state. Additionally, the government announced plans to prepare a White Paper on Kerala's financial condition to ensure transparency and fiscal accountability.
The Deputy Speaker election is taking place during the first session of the newly constituted Assembly after the Congress-led UDF returned to power, ending a decade-long gap and assuming office under Chief Minister VD Satheesan last month.
— ANI
Reader Comments
It's refreshing to see a Governor's speech in Kerala without the usual anti-Centre rhetoric. VD Satheesan seems to be taking a pragmatic approach. The anti-narcotics "Operation Toofaan" is long overdue—our youth need protection. Let's hope the Deputy Speaker election is just the start of smooth governance.
Why is BJP always playing the victim card? Abstaining from voting shows they don't want to be part of the democratic process. The LDF candidate Muhammed Muhsin is a good choice, but I hope the ruling UDF doesn't get complacent. Also, the free KSRTC travel for women is a game-changer! 🚌
As a Malayali, I'm cautiously optimistic. The policy address was balanced, but let's not forget the previous LDF government's legacy. The ₹3,000 monthly pension increase and interest-free loans for youth are welcome. However, the BJP's abstention is a missed opportunity—they should have voted against to show their stance.
Interesting to see the BJP stay silent—maybe they're saving their energy for bigger battles. The UDF's welfare promises sound great on paper, but implementation is key. I'm particularly keen on the white paper for Kerala's finances; we need accountability. Let's give the new government a fair chance. 🙏
Honestly, who cares about the Deputy Speaker election? The real focus should be on the drug menace and economic revival. BJP's abstention is just a publicity stunt. As someone from Kerala, I hope the UDF focuses on development instead of
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