Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala has spoken about several important issues facing the state, including his political ambitions, the fight against drugs, the Sabarimala gold theft case and the relationship between Kerala and the Centre.
Speaking at the India Today Roundtable Kerala, Chennithala said he remains active in politics and has not given up his ambition of becoming Kerala Chief Minister in the future. At the same time, he said his immediate responsibility as Home Minister is to maintain law and order and provide a peaceful environment for the people of the state.
When asked about his political ambitions, Chennithala said he does not believe political power should be the only goal of a politician. However, he openly acknowledged that he still has ambitions for a higher position. He said he is not a “sanyasi” and remains committed to political work and the Congress party.
A major part of the discussion focused on Operation Tufan, Kerala’s campaign against drug trafficking and substance abuse. Chennithala said the government launched the initiative after recognising the seriousness of the drug problem, particularly among young people.
According to Chennithala, Operation Tufan has three main areas: enforcement, public awareness and rehabilitation. The enforcement campaign focuses on action against people involved in drug trafficking, while awareness programmes aim to involve communities, students and families. The rehabilitation component is intended to help people affected by drug abuse return to normal life.
Chennithala has also called for cooperation between Kerala and other southern states to tackle drug trafficking. He said coordination is needed between states including Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Puducherry, along with central agencies. Officials from these states have discussed ways to improve coordination and prevent the movement of illegal drugs across state borders.
The Home Minister said the next phase of Operation Tufan would focus more on local communities and villages. According to him, local bodies such as Gram Panchayats, Block Panchayats and District Panchayats will be involved. Kudumbashree is also expected to participate in the campaign.
Chennithala also discussed the Sabarimala gold theft case, which has attracted significant attention in Kerala. He rejected allegations that the government was protecting influential people and said the investigation is being monitored by the Kerala High Court. He stated that those found responsible would face legal action.
Another issue raised during the discussion was Kerala’s financial situation and its relationship with the Centre. Chennithala said financial constraints are among the major challenges facing the state. He also called for greater financial powers for Kerala and said stronger Centre-state cooperation would be important for fulfilling the government’s commitments to the people.
Chennithala said the fight against drug abuse should not be limited to one political party or one state. He called for political parties, state governments and the Centre to work together to protect young people from drug-related harm.
His comments come as Kerala continues to focus on law and order, drug control and the investigation into the Sabarimala case. At the same time, Chennithala’s remarks about his future political ambitions have added another topic to the state’s political discussion.