Budget session of 14th Kerala Legislative Assembly begins today with policy address by Governor Arif Mohammad Khan amidst protest by Opposition in the House demanding resignation of Speaker.
In his speech which extended beyond 2 hours, Governor stressed that the Government delivered in ensuring the welfare of the people despite multiple challenges.
He also detailed measures undertaken by the Kerala Government to support people and economy in the distress period caused by COVID pandemic.
Regarding the Covid situation, the speech pointed to the lowest mortality rate and free treatment as successful handling of the situation by the government.
Kerala was the first state to declare a special COVID package to stimulate the economy, the address noted.
Electoral success in the localbody elections is a mandate for the welfare measures undertaken by the State.
Achievements of the Government in various sectors were also listed in detail in the address which lasted for more than 2 hours.
The future vision for resurgence of Kerala economy was also laid out in the policy address to make Kerala the investment destination at global level.
In the speech, reference was made to the federal relations noting the state Government allegation that certain Central Agencies are impeding the development programs of the State administration.
The pending issue of GST compensation as well as the demand for raising the borrowing limit to 5% of state State GDP was also raised in the policy address.
The perspective of the State Government against the new Union Agricultural bills was also mentioned.
After protests in the house, the Opposition staged walkout during the policy address demanding immediate resignation of Speaker whom opposition alleges to have association with Gold Smugglers.
Opposition leader also termed the Policy address an attempt to mislead the people from real issues.
Speaker’s Assistant Private Secretary was summoned by Customs in connection with Dollar Smuggling case and he has appeared before customs today for questioning after three summoning notices by Customs.
Opposition alleges that Speaker was trying to shield his Assistant Private Secretary under the garb of legislative privileges.
The house has adjourned for the day and will convene on 11th January for obituary reference followed by discussion on motion of thanks to Governors address on 12th and 13th January.
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