Controversy Swirls After Mani Shankar Aiyar Backs Kerala CM Vijayan

Senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar supports Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan, stirring discontent within the party. Aiyar lauded Kerala's panchayati raj system at an international seminar, contrasting it with Congress's performance. His comments led Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera to clarify that Aiyar's views are personal, not representing the party.

Senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar has stirred controversy by endorsing Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, creating a rift within his party. His remarks, made during the Vision 2031 seminar, were criticized by Congress leadership as Aiyar distanced himself from the party line to commend Kerala's panchayati raj accomplishments.

Speaking at the seminar attended by Vijayan, Aiyar praised Kerala's efforts in achieving the ideals of grassroots democracy, recalling Mahatma Gandhi's vision. He noted the state's success despite being led by a Marxist-Leninist party, sparking intense debate among political circles and party colleagues.

While the seminar highlighted advancements in local governance, Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera emphasized that Aiyar's viewpoints were personal. This clarification comes as the Congress strategizes its political return in Kerala, facing upcoming elections with heightened scrutiny on party unity and policy coherence.

(With inputs from agencies.)