Thiruvananthapuram: Preparations for the swearing-in ceremony of the incoming United Democratic Front (UDF) government, led by chief minister-designate V D Satheesan, have entered the final stage at Central Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. Elaborate security, traffic, and public arrangements have been put in place ahead of Monday's event.
Expected Attendees
Senior Congress functionaries and chief ministers from Congress-ruled states are expected to attend the ceremony. Those likely to attend include Chief Ministers Siddaramaiah (Karnataka), A Revanth Reddy (Telangana), and Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu (Himachal Pradesh). Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, Lok Sabha Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and several ministers from other states are also expected.
Protocol Disagreement
A protocol-related disagreement has emerged over who should be accommodated on the main stage during the oath-taking function. Sources said the protocol wing informed Raj Bhavan that invited chief ministers and the Lok Sabha opposition leader were expected on the dais. However, Raj Bhavan directed that only the governor, the chief minister-designate, ministers taking oath, and the chief secretary should be present on the dais. Officials in the general administration department said the final decision rests with the governor.
Traffic and Security Arrangements
The city police have announced extensive traffic and security arrangements. Traffic restrictions will be in force from 7 am to 4 pm on Monday, according to City Police Commissioner K Karthick. Only VIP entry will be permitted through the main gate of the stadium. Attendees have been instructed to enter the stadium before 8 am; gates and adjoining roads will be closed by 9 am.
Public Viewing Arrangements
Authorities have arranged LED screens at six locations across the city for the public to watch the ceremony live. Entry to the stadium will be through four gates. Priority entry will be given to pass holders, after which others will be allowed entry depending on crowd management and security considerations.
