An Opposition uproar over the government’s alleged failure to warn fishers about Cyclone Ockhi marked the opening of the ninth session of the Assembly on Monday.
UDF members raised placards with slogans that read “Ockhi disaster: government’s foundering unforgivable” when Governor P. Sathasivam entered the House.
Leader of the Opposition Ramesh Chennithala said scores of fishers were yet to return home.
He demanded the Governor’s immediate intervention in the matter. Mr. Sathasivam said he would listen after the inaugural speech. The Opposition erupted into a chorus of protest when Mr. Sathasivam wound up his address. As he exited the House after the national anthem, the Governor halted briefly in front of the Opposition benches with folded hands.
Later at a press meet, Mr. Chennithala rubbished the Governor’s address as hollow and deficient. He said the government’s claim that fishers were warned was a lie. Mr. Chennithala claimed that even Mr. Sathasivam seemed acutely aware that his government’s policy statement lacked substance.
On financial issues
The Governor’s speech did not reflect the financial crisis that had gripped the Government, he said.
The State Treasury had closed due to lack of funds. It did not honour bills anymore. There was no money to pay pension. Retired KSRTC employees were on the warpath. Some had committed suicide . The payment of worker welfare board pensions had been held up. The government faced an imminent shutdown, he said.
