THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala government is under fire once again as preparations begin for the fifth edition of the Loka Kerala Sabha, scheduled to take place from January 29 to 31, 2026. While the government frames the event as a bridge between the state and its global diaspora, critics are calling it a “colossal waste of public money,” estimated to cost the state exchequer approximately ₹10 crore.
Event Schedule and Venue
The three-day event will kick off with an inauguration at Nishagandhi on January 29. The subsequent sessions on January 30 and 31 will be held at the Sankaranarayanan Thambi Hall of the Kerala Legislative Assembly. Notably, the Assembly will be adjourned during the ongoing Budget Session to accommodate the event, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition.
The “Pranchiyettan” Label
Social media and political rivals have dubbed the gathering the “Pranchiyettan Sabha,” a reference to a fictional character who seeks social status through wealth. The primary allegation is that the Sabha prioritizes wealthy and influential NRIs while offering little to no tangible benefits for the average expatriate worker struggling in foreign lands.
Critics argue that previous editions failed to implement meaningful welfare schemes for common NRIs, serving instead as a platform for the Chief Minister and other ministers to network with the elite.
Timing and Financial Concerns
This marks the final Loka Kerala Sabha under the current Pinarayi Vijayan-led LDF government. With the state currently grappling with a severe financial crunch, the decision to spend ₹10 crore on a ceremonial event has been met with widespread public resentment.
Opponents also pointed out that previous “overseas editions” of the Sabha led to controversies regarding the travel expenses of ministers and their families. As the state moves toward an election year, the government’s decision to pause the legislative budget proceedings for this event is being viewed by many as a purely political exercise rather than a genuine effort for NRI welfare.
