Kochi: In Idukki, the Left Democratic Front has called for a hartal (strike) on January 9 in response to Governor Arif Mohammed Khan's scheduled attendance at an event. This decision stems from the governor's refusal to sign the Land Amendment Bill, prompting a protest organized by Raj Bhavan. The Governor is slated to attend an event of the Traders and Industry Coordinating Committee in Thodupuzha. Left leaders highlight the potential challenges the governor may face reaching the Thodupuzha event during the hartal.
Simultaneously, MLA MM Mani made derogatory remarks against the Governor for not endorsing the Amendment bill, referring to the Governor as 'naari' (despicable). He considers the Governor's visit to an event in Idukki as provocative. The incident gains significance, especially given MM Mani's reaction to the Governor discussing traders' losses in Idukki. Mani objected to the situation, emphasizing the need for public awareness and discourse regarding the Governor's involvement in local matters. MM Mani not only voiced concerns but actively called for withdrawing the decision to invite the governor to the event, citing the timing as inappropriate amid the ongoing Raj Bhavan march by the Left.
Meanwhile, on Friday, the Governor signed an ordinance amending the state's GST law concerning gambling amid the ongoing conflict between Raj Bhavan and the Left government. Sources from Raj Bhavan confirmed Khan's endorsement of the ordinance. Khan had previously faced criticism from the Supreme Court for delaying several bills passed by the Kerala state assembly.
The government clarified that the ordinance aims to address uncertainties in the current GST law related to monetary betting, encompassing activities such as casino betting, online gambling, and horse racing.
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