THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Following a significant setback in the recent local body elections, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan appears to be in a state of deep despondency, according to reports from within the State Secretariat. Observers and high-ranking officials have noted that the Chief Minister, once known for his commanding presence and stern authority, seems to have lost his characteristic vigor amidst a rising tide of anti-incumbency and recent controversies.
The shift in the Chief Minister’s body language became a major talking point during a high-level meeting of Department Secretaries held yesterday. Addressing the IAS officers, the Chief Minister reportedly spoke in a subdued tone, signaling a sense of impending departure.
”The Model Code of Conduct will come into effect within a month and a half. We have very little time left. Everyone must cooperate to ensure that announced projects are completed as quickly as possible,” the Chief Minister told the officers. He also hinted that the upcoming budget would contain new announcements but reminded the officials that the government’s powers would be limited once the election notification is issued.
The change in his demeanor—traditionally marked by confidence and gravity—reportedly left many officers surprised. Following the meeting, a senior IAS officer was overhead remarking to a colleague, “The Chief Minister has lost his radiance and energy (Ojas and Thejas).”
The political atmosphere in Kerala has become increasingly tense for the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF). The combination of the local body election defeat, the Sabarimala gold theft controversy, and a general sentiment of anti-incumbency has put the government on the defensive. While the opposition appears re-energized and ready for the upcoming Assembly elections, the Chief Minister’s recent behavior suggests a “farewell mood,” indicating that the leadership may be bracing for a difficult electoral battle ahead.
