Hours after being sworn in as the Chief Minister of Keralam, VD Satheesan convened his inaugural Cabinet meeting, making significant announcements aimed at social welfare. Key decisions included free travel for women on Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses starting from June 15, and a substantial Rs 3,000 increase in the monthly honorarium for ASHA workers. The Cabinet’s initiatives reflect a promise made to the public during prior protests by these workers, who demonstrated outside the Secretariat for better compensation.

In addition to the ASHA workers’ hike, there is also a Rs 1,000 increase planned for Anganwadi workers, pre-primary teachers, school cooking staff, and ayahs. These measures underscore the new government’s commitment to enhancing support for various community-oriented roles within the state.

Moreover, the Cabinet approved the establishment of a dedicated department for elderly welfare. This department aims to address the growing needs of the elderly population in Keralam and ensure that their rights and welfare are safeguarded.

Formation of a Special Investigation Team

During the meeting, the Cabinet also established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) tasked with investigating the alleged attacks on Congress leaders that occurred during the Nava Kerala Yatra, which was led by former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan earlier in 2023. This decision is viewed as a proactive step to ensure accountability and address concerns raised by party members.

The formation of the SIT illustrates the government’s intent to respond to political violence, thus reinforcing party unity and maintaining public confidence in law enforcement processes. This move has been welcomed by several members of the Congress party, who stressed the importance of upholding democratic values and ensuring justice.

Details of the Oath-Ceremony and Administrative Structure

VD Satheesan took the oath of office on May 18 at a ceremonial event held at the Central Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, marking a significant occasion as the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) returned to power after a decade. Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar administered the oath to Satheesan and his Cabinet of ministers, which comprises 20 members, including 14 first-time ministers. Among these members, two are women and two belong to the Scheduled Caste community.

Satheesan emerged victorious for the sixth time from the Paravur Assembly constituency, reflecting a strong political presence in the region. Additionally, veteran political leader PK Kunhalikutty, aged 74, was sworn in as a minister, holding a notable record as a nine-time MLA with extensive experience in various portfolios, particularly in the industry sector.

The Assembly elections held on April 9 saw the UDF securing 102 seats out of 140, a clear mandate that led to their formal assumption of power on May 18. In this context, both the Prime Minister and Union Minister V. Muraleedharan extended their congratulations to Satheesan, expressing their commitment to cooperate with the new government for the betterment of Keralam.

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