LDF trying to 'protect' culprits in HMT deal: Cong

Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 11: The Congress in Kerala today alleged that the CPI(M)-led Left Democratic Front was trying to ''shield the culprits'' in the HMT land deal case as no action had been taken even after the Chief Secretary had submitted a report on the deal.

''After the Chief Secretary's report has come, the government is delaying action. The government is only helping the culprits,'' KPCC President Ramesh Chennithala told reporters here. Reiterating his demand for the resignation of the Industries and Revenue Ministers, he said the Revenue, Industries and Law Secretaries had given reports against selling the HMT land. The Industries Secretary had asked the District Collector to take action against the sale of the land. However, the Secretary had changed his view later, he charged.

Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan had remained silent on those behind the HMT deal, Mr Chennithala alleged, asking the government to withdraw the land sold by the HMT.

On the attack on a function attended by Leader of the Opposition in the state Oommen Chandy in Kasaragod by CPI(M) activists, he said even the leader was under threat. ''This only showed the deteriorating law and order situation in the state,'' he alleged The Congress has called for a 'hartal' on February 19 against the ''anti-people'' policies of the government, including price hike and health insurance issues, he said.

UNI