PR Controversy Surrounds Kerala CM's Interview

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan refuted claims that his government hired a PR firm for a recent media interview. Opposition parties accused him of appeasing communalism. Vijayan clarified the interview was at the behest of a former MLA's son and denied any PR involvement.

In a recent press conference, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan firmly denied allegations that his administration engaged a PR agency for conducting an interview with a media house. Responding to opposition criticism, Vijayan clarified that the interview was granted at the request of the son of a former CPI(M) MLA.

The opposition Congress accused Vijayan of pandering to communal sentiments through the interview, with leader Ramesh Chennithala demanding a public apology for remarks allegedly made on gold smuggling and hawala transactions in the Malappuram district.

The Chief Minister's Office has since issued a statement, affirming Vijayan's position and refuting claims that he used any provocative language. The political drama reflects a deeper ongoing conflict between the ruling party and the opposition.

(With inputs from agencies.)