Oommen Chandy Behind Sabotaging of Sabari Railway Project, Alleges BJP

Pathanamthitta: State president of BJP V Muraleedharan has alleged that Chief Minister Oommen Chandy was behind the sabotaging of Sabari rail project. The statement was made during the inauguration a protest march towards the collectorate, staged by BJP’s district committee, seeking redress of the UDF government’s step motherly attitude towards Sabarimala. Minister KM Mani has also adopted a stance that props up Oommen Chandy’s attitude.

“The project has sabotaged to avoid a situation where private land, including regions like Pala will be reclaimed. Sabari railway line was envisaged by Vajpayee government, having in mind the development of Sabarimala. Along with the sabotaging of Sabari railway project, it appears as if Pampa Action Plan has also been discarded. But then isn’t it ironical that Oommen Chandy is now seeking a ‘National Pilgrim Centre’ status for Sabarimala,” said Muraleedharan, adding that with just a few days more remaining for Manadalam season to begin, even the basic amenities have not been catered to for Sabarimala pilgrims.

“The state government is showing sheer callousness. There has to be a comprehensive developmental pattern for Sabarimala’s development. If the state government continues with their attitude of sheer negligence, we will be forced to set up ‘Sabarimala Conservation Centres’ all over the state. Enforced people’s remonstration programmes will also be embarked upon,” said Muraleedharan. 

Regarding the proposed international airport at Aranmula, Muraleedharan said that central government will never permit the construction of an airport at the spot. “It was the LDF government that gave permission to the party for filling up paddy fields for setting up airport runway. The CPM is now campaigning against the airport, by hiding this bitter truth. People have begun to realize the truth and have started scoffing at them,” he stated. 

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