Portrait Controversy: A Misinterpreted Move in Thiruvananthapuram

The CPI(M)-led LDF addressed false reports about removing a portrait of Sree Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma from the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation. They clarified it was moved for maintenance, condemning efforts to politicize the issue, especially after BJP took over the corporation after 45 years.

The CPI(M)-led LDF has dismissed as unfounded the media reports concerning the installation of a portrait of Sree Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma, a former ruler of Travancore, at the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation.

S P Deepak, the LDF Parliamentary Leader at Thiruvananthapuram Corporation, revealed in a statement that the LDF had not opposed the portrait's installation in the Council Hall. He explained that the previous governing body simply moved the portrait for necessary maintenance procedures.

Deepak criticized the misleading claims that the LDF had removed the portrait with malicious intent. After maintenance, the portrait was promptly returned. The Left criticized attempts to sensationalize the issue and involve the Royal Family, arguing that the portrait has been respectfully displayed for nearly fifty years under various LDF administrations.

(With inputs from agencies.)