Satheesan Calls for Election Commission Intervention to Delay KSCSTE Appointment
Opposition leader V D Satheesan has formally requested the Election Commission (EC) to intervene and suspend the interview procedures for appointing the executive vice-president (EVP) of the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) until the assembly election process is fully completed. In a letter addressed to the chief election officer (CEO), Satheesan emphasized that conducting the scheduled interviews on April 25 would be inappropriate under the current model code of conduct.
Background and Allegations of Impropriety
The notification for this crucial appointment was issued by the Kerala State Planning Board on March 2. The EVP position, which carries a five-year term, serves as the chief executive role of KSCSTE, with eligibility restricted to distinguished scientists and technical experts. Satheesan alleged that proceeding with such a significant appointment during the code of conduct period undermines transparency and impartiality. He raised concerns about the undue haste in conducting the interview and questioned the composition of the search-cum-selection committee, challenging the objectivity of the entire procedure.
Urgent Appeal for Adherence to Election Norms
In his appeal, Satheesan urged the CEO to examine the issue thoroughly and provide appropriate urgent instructions to the government to ensure strict compliance with the election code of conduct. He highlighted that KSCSTE oversees projects worth crores of rupees allocated by the central government for science and technology research in universities and colleges across Kerala. The council is also responsible for coordinating key institutions such as the Thiruvananthapuram Palode botanical garden, water resource centre, forest research institute, and NatPAC.
Satheesan further pointed out the inconsistency in the government's actions, noting that while appointments recommended by the government for Public Service Commission (PSC) members, information commissioners, and panchayat ombudsman are currently on hold by the governor, the rush to appoint the KSCSTE EVP during the code of conduct period appears dubious. This move, he argued, could compromise the integrity of the selection process and set a concerning precedent for administrative appointments during election times.
The opposition leader's letter underscores the need for maintaining electoral fairness and preventing any potential misuse of power, urging immediate action to uphold democratic principles in Kerala's governance.
