CPI to Boycott Cabinet Meeting Over PM-SHRI Scheme

The Communist Party of India (CPI) has intensified its stance against the Central government’s PM-SHRI education scheme. CPI ministers will boycott the upcoming cabinet meeting scheduled for October 29. The party has also convened a state council meeting on November 4 to discuss further actions. The government proceeded to sign the PM-SHRI agreement despite strong opposition from the CPI.

The CPI has stated that it cannot accept the government’s unilateral decision to sign the PM-SHRI scheme, especially after assurances from CPM General Secretary M.A. Baby that the matter would be discussed within the front. The CPI alleges that this move constitutes a breach of front etiquette.

The Education Secretary signed the PM-SHRI agreement on behalf of the state. Following the signing, the Central government has assured Kerala that the withheld SSK fund of 1500 crores will be released soon. Kerala signed the scheme even though the CPI had raised objections to it on three separate occasions, including in the cabinet.