Criminals! All of them: Governor Arif Mohammed Khan lashes out at protesting students

New Delhi: In a startling turn of events, Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan launched a scathing attack on student activists during his visit to Calicut University, raising the stakes in the ongoing feud with the Students Federation of India (SFI), the student wing affiliated with the ruling CPI(M).

Governor Khan, not mincing words, alleged a conspiracy involving Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in the recent attack on his vehicle. In a bold assertion, he reiterated his claim that Pinarayi Vijayan personally sponsored the protests orchestrated against him.

A fearless stand?

Defiant in the face of opposition, Governor Khan, exuding confidence, labelled the protesting students as "criminals" allegedly hired by Chief Minister Vijayan. "They are all criminals. They have been hired by the chief minister. Whatever protest is there, it is sponsored by the chief minister personally," boldly stated Mr Khan.

Massive protest erupts

Calicut University became the epicentre of a massive protest organized by the SFI, anticipating Governor Khan's visit. The SFI has been actively accusing the Governor of pushing BJP-RSS nominees into various university senates across Kerala, prompting widespread protests.

Governor Khan's counter

Responding to the accusations, Governor Khan asserted his independence, stating that he is accountable only to the President of India. Brushing off claims of wrongdoing, Khan defended his recommendations, citing discretion in his decisions. "I am not accountable to criminals," he boldly declared.

CM Vijayan's retort

Chief Minister Vijayan hit back at Governor Khan, criticising him for using strong language against the protesting activists. Vijayan questioned Khan's choice of words, expressing disbelief at the Governor referring to the activists as "criminals" and "goondas." "How can he use such rude words against the protesters?" queried Mr Vijayan.

Governor's role in question?

Accusing Khan of losing sight of his role as the Governor of Kerala, Chief Minister Vijayan remarked that Khan seems to be saying whatever comes to mind, emphasizing the importance of the Governor's position.

What is the ongoing feud?

This latest confrontation unfolds in the wake of an earlier incident this month when Governor Khan accused Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of conspiring to physically harm him after an alleged attack by SFI members on his vehicle. As political tensions soar, the war of words between the Governor and the Chief Minister takes a more dramatic turn.