MP criticises formation of Salem Division

Palakkad, Jan 22 (UNI) The decision to form a new Railway Division at Salem by Southern Railway was against the assurance given by Railway Minister in Parliament, MP N N Krishna Das claimed today.

While the Minister had promised in the House that the new division would be formed by taking some sections from all existing divisions, Salem Division had been formed by taking sections only from Palakkad Division, he told reporters here.

This move would not be allowed at any cost, he said.

Mr Das said a large number of employees from Palakkad Division had been transferred without their consent and the Railway was 'harassing' employees who opposed the formation of the new Division.

All Kerala MPs would approach the Prime Minister on the issue, he said, adding they would voice their protest against allotting an IIT to Andhra Pradesh, when the Centre had promised the institution in the state.

The state government had even allotted the required land at Kanchikode in the district and Central officials had expressed their satisfaction after its inspection, he said.

UNI