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Summary:

On January 1, 2026, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan defended his decision to give a car ride to SNDP Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesan, despite criticism. He stated that he stands by his actions, while distancing himself from Natesan’s derogatory remarks about the CPI. The CPI(M) echoed this sentiment, emphasizing their continued alliance with the CPI. Vijayan also touched upon the upcoming Assembly polls, secularism, and accused the Congress and BJP of colluding against the Left Front.

News Article:

Vijayan Defends Car Trip with Natesan, Reaffirms Left Unity Amidst Controversy

Thiruvananthapuram, January 1, 2026 – Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan today defended his decision to offer a car ride to SNDP Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesan, dismissing criticism from CPI State secretary Binoy Viswam. “Pinarayi Vijayan is not Binoy Viswam,” the Chief Minister stated at a press conference, asserting that he believes his actions were justified.

The Chief Minister addressed the controversy surrounding Natesan’s disparaging remarks about the CPI, labeling them as “Chathiyan Chandu,” firmly rejecting the description. He stressed the CPI’s pivotal role within the Left Democratic Front (LDF).

“The CPI is one of the key partners in our front. It is a Left party. We have very warm relations with that party in matters related to the front. None of us feels being betrayed in any way,” he affirmed.

CPI(M) State secretary M.V. Govindan also addressed the situation earlier in the day, stating that the party would not attempt to control Natesan’s statements, affirming a continued alliance between CPI and CPI(M).

When questioned about who would lead the LDF in the upcoming Assembly polls, Vijayan stated that the party will make a decision collectively. He also urged vigilance against communalism, highlighting Kerala’s role as a center of secularism, and accused the Congress and BJP of colluding in elections, citing the BJP’s victory in Thiruvananthapuram Corporation as an example.

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