Controversy Surrounds Vizhinjam Port Project: CPI(M) and Congress Clash Over Credit and Implementation

A dispute has arisen between the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) and the Congress party regarding the Vizhinjam International Seaport project in Kerala. The CPI(M) asserted that the credit for the project’s initiation and realization belongs to the Left government, dismissing the Congress’ claim that former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy deserves recognition.

MV Govindan, the CPI(M) Kerala unit secretary, stated that the Congress opposed the port project while the Left government steadfastly pursued its implementation. Govindan emphasized that EK Nayanar, a former Left chief minister, envisioned the port 30 years ago, with subsequent progress made by VS Achuthanandan. He criticized the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) government for failing to properly implement the project, alleging that they entered into an agreement with the Adani Group, leading to a loss for the state.

Govindan accused the UDF of succumbing to pressure from the BJP-led central government, resulting in the unfavorable agreement. Despite controversies and protests, the Vizhinjam port project, developed through a public-private partnership with the Adani Group, marked a significant milestone for Kerala when the first ship, carrying cranes from China, arrived at the port after several delays.