Vijay, the newly sworn-in Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, will not be attending the swearing-in ceremony of Kerala’s chief minister-designate VD Satheesan. This decision arises from a combination of administrative responsibilities and security considerations, as reported by various sources. The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), successfully returning to power after a decade, is set to be inaugurated in a ceremony at Thiruvananthapuram.

While it was initially believed that Vijay had received an invitation to the event, which includes the chief ministers of Karnataka and Telangana, sources later indicated that he would not travel to Kerala. Officials evaluated the potential for crowd surges due to Vijay’s significant popularity, raising concerns over security measures at an already heavily anticipated gathering.

Law enforcement officials expressed worries that Vijay’s presence might create crowd management difficulties, overshadowing the main proceedings of the swearing-in. Historical precedents, where Vijay’s previous visits to Kerala resulted in overwhelming crowds, played a pivotal role in this decision.

Shashi Tharoor Also Opts Out

Shashi Tharoor, a senior leader within the Congress party, has announced that he too will not be present at the swearing-in ceremony. The reasons for Tharoor’s absence differ from Vijay’s, as he is currently in the United States. He is engaging in significant commitments, including delivering a commencement speech at his former institution, the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University, and attending a reunion for the 50th anniversary of his graduating class.

Tharoor expressed regret over missing the ceremony through a post on X, stating that this occasion would enable him to celebrate past achievements in the U.S. whilst anticipating future developments in Kerala. His absence has attracted attention, particularly in light of his known differences with certain factions within the Congress leadership in the state.

Despite his absence, the political atmosphere surrounding the UDF’s return to power remains celebratory, as expressed by various party members and supporters.

Thiruvananthapuram Experiences Enthusiastic Celebrations

As preparations for the swearing-in ceremony unfolded, Thiruvananthapuram witnessed a significant influx of UDF workers and supporters. Thousands gathered at the Central Stadium, arriving from various parts of the state to witness this momentous occasion. The venue was filled with Congress supporters and alliance members donning white khadi shirts and mundu, demonstrating their enthusiasm through slogans and chants of support for the UDF government.

The humid weather conditions did not deter hundreds, including women and children, who gathered to celebrate the UDF’s return to power after a long decade under the Left Democratic Front (LDF). For many supporters who were unable to enter the already congested venue, festivities continued outside the stadium, where they danced to drum beats in joy.

The excitement surrounding this event reflects the significant political shift in the state and the energising effect the UDF’s return to power has had on Congress workers. Early preparations saw newly elected MLAs and senior leaders arriving at the venue, signalling an important day for the party.

Security and Traffic Management in Place

In light of the high-profile event, security and traffic arrangements have been heightened across Thiruvananthapuram. Authorities imposed traffic and parking restrictions in various areas of the city from 7 am to 4 pm, ensuring smooth access for thousands of attendees and VIPs.

The recent elections for Kerala’s 140-member Assembly took place on April 9, with results announced on May 4. The UDF secured a decisive victory, obtaining 102 seats, while the LDF garnered 35 and the BJP three. The newly elected MLAs are scheduled to take their oaths on May 21, and the election of the Assembly Speaker will follow on May 22.

Governor’s address concerning the state’s policies is anticipated on May 29, with the budget presentation expected by June 5, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Kerala’s political landscape.

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