Controversy Erupts Over 'Bharat Mata' Symbol at Kerala's Raj Bhavan

Kerala's CPI(M) leader M V Govindan criticized Governor Arlekar's use of the RSS symbol 'Bharat Mata' at official events, urging secular opposition. The Education Minister boycotted a ceremony due to this. The Raj Bhavan critiqued the boycott, labeling it protocol violation. Meanwhile, Govindan predicts LDF's electoral success.

Controversy has unfolded in Kerala as CPI(M) state secretary M V Govindan condemned the Governor Rajendra Arlekar's decision to incorporate the RSS symbol 'Bharat Mata' at official functions held at Raj Bhavan.

Govindan expressed support for Education Minister V Sivankutty's decision to boycott a Raj Bhavan event for displaying the contentious portrait. He asserted that only national symbols should grace public events.

With state Agriculture Minister P Prasad also protesting, the Raj Bhavan's initial assurance to refrain from such displays at official functions has been allegedly violated. Further, the Raj Bhavan reprimanded the boycott as protocol breach. Amid these tensions, Govindan anticipates a significant Left Democratic Front triumph in the ongoing political climate.

(With inputs from agencies.)