'Minister not enjoying my pleasure': Kerala Governor Khan vs CM Vijayan over FM Balagopal's speech

A major political crisis appears to be brewing in Kerala with the Governor intensifying his tussle with the Left Front government.

On 26 October 2022, Governor Arif Mohammed Khan wrote to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan seeking "constitutionally appropriate" action against Finance Minister KN Balagopal.

The Governor accused minister KN Balagopal of making a speech which "undermined India's unity". Khan's letter to CM Vijayan said, "A minister who deliberately violates the oath and undermines the unity and integrity of India cannot continue to enjoy my pleasure. In these circumstances, I am left with no option but to convey that Finance Minister Balagopal has ceased to enjoy my pleasure."

The Governor did not specify the punishment he wants meted out to the minister, but he may be hinting at sacking of Balagopal.

Chief Minister Vijayan unequivocally rejected the demand, saying that his trust in Balagopal remains "undiminished". Opposition party Congress also criticised the Governor's move.

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Arif Mohammed Khan was referring to a speech delivered by Balagopal at a university campus on 18 October. Governor Khan said that the speech sought to stoke the fire of regionalism and provincialism.

(With PTI inputs)