Thiruvananthapuram, May 20 (PTI) Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan on Wednesday asserted that there would be no compromise on the secular stand of the Congress-led UDF, saying the front would strongly
oppose communalism from any quarter.
Addressing a press conference here after a Cabinet meeting, Satheesan said there was no change in the secular position adopted by him and the UDF.
“It is an extremely strong secular stand. Whoever speaks the language of communalism will be firmly opposed. That is the UDF’s unwavering secular position. There can be no compromise on that,” he said.
The chief minister was responding to questions regarding his recent visits to Christian bishop houses here before and after assuming office.
“What is wrong with visiting bishop houses?” he asked.
Satheesan said he had gone there after the election victory and not with the intention of seeking any favour. He also said he had visited the Latin Bishop House because of his close personal bond with Archbishop Thomas J Netto.
“I visited Cardinal Cleemis as well. I also plan to visit Sivagiri Mutt.
The monks from the mutt came here the other day to bless me,” he said.
The chief minister further said he intended to maintain cordial relations with everyone, including those who had criticised him.
“I will embrace everyone. I will even go and meet those who spoke against me. When one occupies this position, there is a responsibility to bring everyone together. Good relations should be maintained with all,” he said, adding that there would be no compromise on the secular stand.
The CM also responded to questions regarding actor Rini Ann George, who had levelled allegations against former Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil, being booed by a section of Congress workers during the swearing-in ceremony and the cyber attacks she has been facing on social media platforms.
Satheesan said social media had increasingly become a space where women were subjected to humiliation.
Stating that the section of people who face the highest level of humiliation on social media platforms are women journalists, he said, adding that social media has turned into a place to insult women.
“Our stand is not to insult anyone. That has always been our position. No woman should be humiliated. It is my humble request. Everyone should also examine where the centre of such attacks lies,” he added. PTI LGK ADB
