Congress Distances from Aiyar's Kerala CM Remarks

The Congress has distanced itself from Mani Shankar Aiyar's remarks endorsing Pinarayi Vijayan's continuation as Kerala's chief minister. Aiyar, speaking at a seminar, praised Kerala's panchayati raj system under Vijayan. Congress emphasized their focus on bringing the United Democratic Front back into power for responsible governance.

The Congress party has publicly distanced itself from comments made by Mani Shankar Aiyar suggesting that Pinarayi Vijayan would continue as Kerala's chief minister. Aiyar, no longer associated with Congress, was speaking at an international seminar about Kerala's development and panchayati raj system.

Despite Aiyar's remarks, Congress leaders emphasized their commitment to reinstating the United Democratic Front (UDF) in Kerala for more accountable governance. Congress's media head, Pawan Khera, reiterated that Aiyar's opinions were personal, not reflective of the party.

At the seminar, Aiyar praised Kerala's achievements in panchayati raj and urged legal amendments to further solidify its position. He noted Kerala's fulfilment of Mahatma Gandhi's vision for grassroots democracy, even as he called upon Chief Minister Vijayan to lead in panchayati reforms.

(With inputs from agencies.)