Thiruvananthapuram: The state government is facing criticism for its extravagant spending from the public treasury. The Chief Minister’s Christmas-New Year party alone incurred a cost of Rs 16.08 lakh, marking an increase of Rs 7 lakh from the previous year. An additional Rs 1.2 lakh was allocated for the Christmas cake, with an additional expense of Rs 10,725 for the preparation of invitation letters. The finance department approved these expenditures.
Despite claims of a financial crisis and belt-tightening measures, the Chief Minister organized a lavish feast, hosting civic leaders at Muscat Hotel in the capital. The event featured a cake from ‘Square One Homemade Treats’ near St. Mary’s School, Pattom, and the invitation letter was crafted by the advertising company ‘This and That’.
The state is facing accusations of misusing public funds, with the government generously supporting party programs. Following the tourism department’s approval of Rs 50,000 for souvenirs at a CPI(M) local committee program, the government also allocated funds for the banquet expenses. This inconsistency raises concerns, particularly when the government asserts a financial crisis hindering the allocation of funds for essential welfare pensions.
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