📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Fotokannan
Politics
VD Satheesan Denies Lunch Controversy Amid Flood Review
✍️ NDTV
🗓 04 Aug 2026, 07:09 AM
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VD Satheesan said he arrived in Ponnani at about 3 pm, had a meal and found no issue with it, calling the allegations a malicious smear campaign.
VD Satheesan, a senior politician, addressed the media on Monday to refute claims that he received facilitation during a flood review in Ponnani. He stated that he reached the town around 3 pm and had a regular lunch, asserting that there was nothing improper about the act. The politician described the accusations as a "malicious smear campaign" aimed at tarnishing his reputation.
The incident came to light after a report suggested that officials had provided him with a meal during the assessment of flood damage in the region. Satheesan clarified that the meal was a normal part of his routine and did not involve any preferential treatment. He emphasized that his presence was solely for the purpose of overseeing the review process.
Observers noted that the controversy could affect public perception of the flood response efforts. Satheesan's spokesperson urged the media to wait for official findings before drawing conclusions. The Kerala government has yet to release a formal statement on the matter.
The flood review, which began last week, aims to evaluate the damage caused by recent heavy rains and to recommend relief measures for affected communities. Satheesan's comments are expected to influence the ongoing debate about accountability in disaster management.
The incident came to light after a report suggested that officials had provided him with a meal during the assessment of flood damage in the region. Satheesan clarified that the meal was a normal part of his routine and did not involve any preferential treatment. He emphasized that his presence was solely for the purpose of overseeing the review process.
Observers noted that the controversy could affect public perception of the flood response efforts. Satheesan's spokesperson urged the media to wait for official findings before drawing conclusions. The Kerala government has yet to release a formal statement on the matter.
The flood review, which began last week, aims to evaluate the damage caused by recent heavy rains and to recommend relief measures for affected communities. Satheesan's comments are expected to influence the ongoing debate about accountability in disaster management.