Is My Being a Christian the Problem? Leadership Must Clarify, Says Abin Varkey on Youth Congress State President Post
Kozhikode: Abin Varkey, a prominent Youth Congress leader, has publicly questioned whether his Christian identity played a role in him not being considered for the state president position of the Youth Congress. Speaking to reporters in Kozhikode, Varkey stated that he is unsure if he is being perceived in such a way and emphasized that the party leadership should provide clarification on the matter.
Varkey affirmed his unwavering commitment to the party, stating that he would remain at the forefront of struggles regardless of whether he is appointed to any particular post. He expressed his intention to cooperate with the state leadership and move forward, adding that he would neither be overly joyful nor saddened by the decision. He acknowledged his gratitude to Rahul Gandhi and the Youth Congress national leadership for their decisions.
Highlighting his electoral performance, Varkey mentioned that he garnered 170,000 votes through the election process. He reiterated his dedication to the party, stating, “The party gave me an identity. I will do nothing to tarnish it. The upcoming elections are important for the Congress. I wished to continue working in Kerala. I appeal to the leaders to give me an opportunity to continue in Kerala.” He emphasized that this appeal comes from a staunch, party-obedient worker, especially given the crucial political juncture in Kerala.
Varkey clarified that he is not asserting that the party’s decision was erroneous. If appointed as a National Secretary, he intends to communicate his stance to the party leadership. He expressed a strong desire to continue his fight against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and reiterated his willingness to accept any decision made by the party. He aspires to remain in Kerala as a dedicated fighter, fulfilling the party’s expectations, and had already requested the leaders to allow him to continue his work in the state when the decision was announced.
Varkey also stressed that all Youth Congress workers are deserving of all positions within the organization, emphasizing that everyone upholds secular values. He also mentioned that K.M. Abhijith is another individual who should be considered for leadership roles.
The controversy stems from the fact that Ramesh Chennithala had strongly advocated for Abin Varkey, who secured the second-highest number of votes for the Youth Congress president position, to be appointed. However, reports suggest that the appointment of O.J. Janeesh, who received the fewest votes, was a result of the party’s decision to adhere to communal equations, considering that the party’s state president is Christian and the Mahila Congress president is Muslim.