Kerala's Political Tension: Clash Over Bharat Mata Portrait at Environment Event

A political controversy erupted in Kerala following the use of a Bharat Mata portrait at an Environment Day event. The state's Left government objected, asserting it wasn't an official symbol. The disagreement highlighted tensions between state officials and the Governor, emphasizing the importance of neutrality in state functions.

The Kerala government, led by the Left, has expressed strong objection to the use of a Bharat Mata portrait at a recent Environment Day event hosted at the Raj Bhavan. The depiction was not recognized as an official version by the Indian government, leading to political tensions.

Agriculture Minister P Prasad and General Education Minister V Sivankutty criticized the Governor's involvement in endorsing the unauthorized portrait. They argued that constitutional offices should not be arenas for political expressions, and hoped for a correction in this course of action.

The government's sharp response comes amid criticism from opposition parties, with the Congress-led UDF accusing Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of remaining silent. The state eventually moved the event's location, underscoring the division between the Raj Bhavan and state administration.

(With inputs from agencies.)