BJP Criticizes Kerala Government's Appointment of IAS Officer for 'External Cooperation'

The BJP criticized Kerala’s LDF government for appointing IAS officer K Vasuki to handle 'External Cooperation,' arguing it violates federal principles and poses a threat to national unity. BJP state president K Surendran accused Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of overstepping state boundaries with unconstitutional actions.

The BJP in Kerala took a strong stand against the LDF government's decision to assign IAS officer K Vasuki additional duties related to 'External Cooperation.' BJP state president K Surendran asserted that Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan should not treat the state as an independent entity.

Surendran called the appointment of Vasuki as the 'foreign secretary of the state' both unconstitutional and a blatant breach of federal principles. Vasuki, currently serving as the Secretary of Labour and Skills Department, was given this new responsibility by a government order dated July 15.

The same order stated that the General Administration (Political) Department would assist Vasuki in subjects linked to external cooperation until further arrangements are made. Additionally, the Resident Commissioner at Kerala House in New Delhi was assigned to assist her with liaising with the Ministry of External Affairs and embassies.

In a sharp critique, Surendran claimed that if this continues, the Chief Minister might feel the need to establish his own consulate and foreign minister. He emphasized that external affairs are within the central government's purview and such state-level interference sends problematic signals nationally.

Surendran also accused Chief Minister Vijayan of being involved in gold smuggling through diplomatic channels and fund collection abroad. He questioned if the appointment was aimed at bolstering Vijayan’s alleged financial dealings in the Gulf countries and demanded the immediate revocation of the appointment to preserve national integrity.

The BJP leader further mentioned that such moves could expedite the financial collapse of the state, which is already in a severe economic crisis.