Thiruvananthapuram – The CPM Secretariat meeting has started to discuss issues including the resignation of Culture Minister Saji Cherian. Saji Cherian is not attending the meeting. The meeting will discuss the circumstances that led to Saji Cherian’s resignation and the next steps. The video of the party event in Mallapally where journalists did not participate may also be investigated on social media.
The leadership indicates that there may not be a new minister to replace Saji Cherian immediately. In the event of a case once morest Saji Cherian’s speech, a decision will be taken only following evaluating its progress. Saji Cherian is likely to return following the break if he escapes unscathed in the case.
Saji Cherian has been booked under the Prevention of Defamation of National Status Act, 1971 for insulting the Constitution. If convicted, the punishment is imprisonment for three years or fine or both. Matters including the future of MLA status will depend on the verdict in the case.
The Departments of Culture, Fisheries and Youth Welfare, which were handled by Saji Cherian, have been handed over to the Chief Minister for the time being. Any of these key portfolios may be handed over to any of the current ministers. As the fisheries department is critical, it may be given to someone. V. N. Vasava or K. Radhakrishnan is likely to give it.
Content Highlights: CPM state secretariat, Saji Cheriyan’s resignation
