Cyber Attacks on K J Shine and K N Unnikrishnan Prove UDF’s Decadence; Satheeshan Cannot Be Unaware: M V Govindan

Thiruvananthapuram: CPI M State Secretary M V Govindan, speaking at a press conference held at AKG Center, criticised the Congress -led UDF, the Governor of Kerala, and India’s stance on international conflicts, highlighting issues ranging from cyber attacks to higher education and foreign policy.

Govindan said that the cyber attacks targeting CPI M leaders K J Shine and K N Unnikrishnan MLA demonstrate the decadence of the UDF. He added that it cannot be assumed that Opposition Leader V D Satheeshan was unaware of such campaigns carried out by the Congress cyber cell. He called for strong protest against attempts to exploit cyber platforms to harass women.

When serious sexual allegations were raised against MLA Rahul Mamkootathil, the opposition leader had responded that a big “bomb” was about to explode. CPI M had said at that time that whatever bomb came, it would fall on the UDF’s head. However, no one expected that the bomb Satheesh referred to would be of this nature. The plan was reportedly organised in Paravur.

“The UDF carried out a false propaganda campaign targeting K J Shine and the MLA in a way that could mislead public perception. This is evidence of how decadent right-wing politics has become. Actions of right-wing forces in Kerala against women are not appropriate for a modern society. Similar cyber attacks occurred during the last Lok Sabha elections against K K Shailaja, Minister Veena George, and the Thiruvananthapuram Mayor. None of these acts can be justified. The public must take a strong stand against cyber attacks,” Govindan said.

Governor’s Interference in Higher Education Hinders Kerala’s Progress
On the issue of higher education, Govindan said that the Governor is using the chancellor’s position to obstruct the progress of higher education in Kerala. The state government has actively intervened in higher education, leading to significant progress. During the previous LDF government, efforts were made to improve public education, with KIFBI funds used for infrastructure development. This momentum was intended to continue in higher education.

Three of India’s top 17 universities are in Kerala. Kerala University ranks fifth nationally, KUST eighth, and MG University eighteenth. Within the top 100 rankings, 18 colleges are from Kerala, and of the 300 colleges in total, 73 are from Kerala, including 18 government colleges.

“The central government is trying to obstruct this progress by using the Governor. Court interventions have come against Governors’ attempts, and it is unprecedented that Governors themselves are going to court to hinder Kerala’s advancement. Former Governor Arif Mohammed Khan had used universities to favor RSS. The new Governor Rajendra Arlekar is attempting to operate based on the same RSS political agenda. Despite continuous interference, RSS has been unable to achieve its goals,” Govindan said.

He highlighted a recent Supreme Court ruling, which rejected attempts by the Governor to disregard procedures, affirming the state government’s right to prioritize panels recommended by the search committee for Vice-Chancellor appointments. This ruling prevents universities from being turned into RSS strongholds. When the Governor went to court against the stance of the government and syndicates, it cost 11 lakh rupees, which he illegally demanded be paid jointly by the Digital University and Technical University. Govindan said the Governor is using the chancellor’s position to undermine all democratic practices.

India’s pro- US stance and silence on Israel’s attacks is shameful
Govindan also criticised India’s foreign policy, calling it shameful that India has adopted a position favourable to American imperialism. “India, which once stood alongside many countries in support of justice, is now silently endorsing all attacks carried out by Israel,” he said.

He noted that global conflicts disturb the people of Kerala, especially Malayalis living abroad. The recent Israeli incursions in Qatar, where many Malayalis reside, caused shock and concern. “Israel, with American support, has declared that the war will continue, not end. The UN has recognized an independent Palestine, but imperialist interventions have prevented UN resolutions from being implemented effectively. Israel’s approach is based on the US imperialist stance. Israel has declared it will sell the land it conquered through war. More than 65,000 people have been killed in Gaza, including women and children. Strong protests are emerging against Israeli aggression,” Govindan said.