CPI(M) Accuses Kerala Chief Minister of Misusing Helicopter During Floods

Leaders of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) criticized Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan for attending a private event at a Youth League leader's home in Ponnani, Malappuram, amid deadly floods and landslides across the state. Rajya Sabha MP A A Rahim and former MLA V K Prasanth alleged that Satheesan neglected his duties as chairperson of the State Disaster Management Authority to seek personal hospitality.

Further allegations from former education minister V Sivankutty claimed the Chief Minister misused a government helicopter for personal travel to Kochi. Sivankutty compared Satheesan's conduct to Nero fiddling while Rome burned, asserting the aircraft was not utilized for urgent official requirements or disaster relief.

In response, Tourism Minister P C Vishnunadh defended the Chief Minister, stating he is actively coordinating relief efforts and urged opponents to avoid political allegations during a crisis. Health Minister K Muraleedharan also defended the use of helicopters for emergency transport. Satheesan has not yet responded to the specific claims.