Politics · India Bureau
Kerala Minister defends use of luxury vehicle as official transport
IUML leader K.M. Shaji has reiterated that his use of a high-end car as an official vehicle is permissible under regulations. The minister blamed media coverage for amplifying what he characterized as politically-motivated controversy.
LSN India ·
Kerala's K.M. Shaji has once again defended his decision to use a luxury automobile as his official ministerial vehicle, asserting that government rules permit such arrangements. The IUML politician stated that vehicles used by ministers for official duties can be either government-owned or privately owned, and his choice falls within established guidelines.
Shaji attributed the sustained public scrutiny to coordinated efforts by political opponents to generate controversy through media channels. He alleged that the CPI(M) had orchestrated the criticism, which was then amplified by news outlets eager to cover the dispute.
The controversy reflects broader debates in Kerala's political landscape regarding the use of state resources and ministerial privileges. The minister's continued defense suggests the issue remains contentious among sections of the public and within the state's political establishment.
Government officials have not issued clarifications on the specific regulations governing ministerial vehicle usage or confirmed whether Shaji's arrangement complies with current protocols.