“Congress Using Nurses as Shield; Political Remarks, Personal Attacks Throughout Speeches During Secretariat March by UNA

Thiruvananthapuram: The Secretariat March organised by the United Nurses Association (UNA), demanding a salary hike for nurses in private hospitals, witnessed sharp political exchanges and personal criticism directed at Health Minister Veena George.

While the demand to raise nurses’ minimum salary to ₹40,000 has been longstanding, sections of the opposition, including senior leaders of the Indian National Congress, attempted to politicise the issue during the protest.

Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala made pointed remarks against the minister, stating, “The Health Minister is now known as the best actress; it is time to give her an award for her acting. We have never seen a Health Minister who mocks the people of Kerala like this.” His comments were made duringf the ongoing agitation demanding a pay revision for nurses employed in private hospitals.

Similarly, Shibu Baby John of RSP also made controversial remarks targeting the minister during the protest.

Eventhough the decisions regarding wage revisions fall under the purview of the Labour Department, opposition leaders have continued to criticise the Health Minister over the issue.

Meanwhile, statements made by UNA leaders, including Jasmine Shah and Harris Manalampara, have further intensified the political debate. During their address, these leaders suggested that Congress leader SS Lal will be the next Health Minister of Kerala, pointing to the broader political objectives behind the agitation.

Jasmine Shah's statement stating they know who should rule and how to rule also comes with his political motives. Involvement of congress leaders and how they put more focus on attacking the government and Health Minister clearly indicates their intent to use the plight of nurses for political gains rather than empathy.