G. Devarajan criticises LDF over unspent AMRUT funds, promises push for Keralam’s dues from Centre

G. Devarajan, Keralam’s special representative in Delhi, has said that the previous Left Democratic Front (LDF) government stumbled in securing the State’s rightful funds from the Union government.Speaking at a ‘Meet the Press’ event organised at the Kollam Press Club on Saturday (October 17, 2026), Mr. Devarajan pointed out that the State failed to utilise even 25% of the funds sanctioned under the first phase of the AMRUT scheme. He observed that Keralam risks losing around ₹5,100 crore under AMRUT 2.0 due to a delay in submitting fresh project proposals.Mr. Devarajan added that he would utilise his administrative experience in Delhi, alongside the support of the Chief Minister, to adapt to the post-NITI Aayog policy shifts and lead a collective effort to secure Keralam’s rightful share.‘Centre acting unilaterally’Turning his focus to national politics, Mr. Devarajan sharply criticised the Centre for undermining democratic institutions and ignoring political opposition. He alleged that the Centre is acting unilaterally by leveraging its parliamentary majority to rush through crucial legislation and altering election laws without consensus.Expressing concern over the appointment process of the Election Commission of India, he claimed decisions are now virtually restricted to the Prime Minister and the Home Minister. “Despite widespread grievances regarding voting machine security, the Election Commission remains silent, triggering nationwide protests against attempts to subvert the electoral process,” he said.Addressing the long-pending AIIMS project for the State, Mr. Devarajan mentioned that he had discussed the matter with Union Minister Suresh Gopi, adding that concerted, non-partisan efforts will be made to secure AIIMS for Keralam.He also criticised the Central government’s ongoing drive to strip the names of Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Indira Gandhi from various national schemes, terming it an unhealthy political trend that poses a dangerous precedent for the country. Published - October 17, 2026 05:25 pm IST