CM seeks to play down controversy over letter to President

Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 24 (UNI) Kerala Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan today sought to play down the controversy over the alleged letter he had sent to President A P J Abdul Kalam recommending elevation of Kerala High Court Chief Justice V K Bali to the Supreme Court.

Replying to a question at a post-Cabinet briefing, he said as Chief Minister he would discharge his constitutional responsibilities and did not want to share them with the media.

The controversy arose after a newspaper reported that Mr Achuthanandan had written to the President in December last favouring Mr Justice Bali for appointment as a judge of the Supreme Court. CPI(M) feeder organisations like the DYFI and SFI had criticised Mr Justice Bali, who retired yesterday, for some of his recent judgements.

Mr Achuthanandan also warned of stern action against communal forces trying to create trouble and disturb peace in connection with the proposed visit of Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi to the state on January 29.

Mr Modi is scheduled to address a Hindu Maha Mela being organised by the Sangh Parivar here on that day as part of the birth centenary of Guru Golwalker.

Mr Achuthanandan said the government would not allow to create communal tension and stern action would be taken against those trying to create trouble.

UNI