Kozhikode: In a surprise move, Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan took a walk across Kozhikode's SM street on Monday challenging the state government and police.
He headed to Kozhikode SM street in his car after declaring that he wouldn't take police security anymore. In the visuals aired on TV channels, Khan who stepped out of his vehicle was seen interacting with people and children in school uniforms.
Later, he walked on foot through famous Sweetmeat (SM) Street, also known as Mittai Theruvu. The Governor walked for about 200 metres from SK Pottakkadu statue. Many shopkeepers invited him into their shops and offered him delicacies. Khan also posed for photographs with many and picked coddled a baby during his walk.
"I'm overwhelmed by the people's reception," he said after the walk.
Though he declined police security, the district authority deployed a huge force for him. The police were completelt taken aback by the Governor's decision to walk on SM street. Policemen were seen forming a circle of protection around the Governor.
While addressing the media at Calicut University, the Governor had said that he already forwarded a letter to DGP Sheikh Darvesh Saheb asking to withdraw the police security.
“Kerala has the best police force. Police are not at fault. But they are not being allowed to discharge their duties. They took action against the protesters only at the place where I came out of the car. What about the other two places? They decided to dilute the prosecution because of the instructions given by the Chief Minister. I won't blame the police. They are prevented from taking action. I have told police that I don't need any security. I am not scared of anyone. I have sent a letter to DGP regarding this,” the Governor said while addressing the media at Calicut University on Monday.
Taking a dig at the Chief Minister, he alleged that the person who instigated violence in Kannur is trying to threaten him with SFI activists.
Referring to the appointment of carpenters at Calicut University, the Governor alleged that CPM men obtained the posts. He asserted that being Chancellor of the universities, he is obliged to ensure the autonomy of the universities.
CM says centre-state relations on icy ground
Denouncing the governor's actions, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan asked the central government to intervene in the issue by pointing out that the federal system would go for a toss.
The CM also criticised the governor for taking the police to remove SFI banners in the Calicut Univerity and insulting his native place Kannur as a land of criminals.
“He is blabbering. I think the Centre should intervene in the issue and control him. Otherwise, the centre and state relations will be affected,” said the CM.