Kerala Criticized for Appointing Official for “External Cooperation

The Kerala government’s recent decision to appoint K Vasuki, secretary in the labour and skills department, with the additional charge of “the matters connected with external cooperation” has sparked controversy. This move was questioned by BJP parliamentarian P P Chaudhary in the Lok Sabha on July 15, where he criticized the Kerala government for overstepping its constitutional jurisdiction.

Chaudhary described the action as “unconstitutional” and an “encroachment” on the responsibilities of the Centre, implying that it appeared as if the Kerala government was treating itself as a separate nation. Chaudhary argued that external cooperation involved dealings with various nations, Indian embassies, and missions abroad, all of which fall under the Union List according to the allocation of business rules.

He expressed concern that the state government should not intrude into matters beyond its jurisdiction, emphasizing that functions related to external cooperation can only be performed by the Government of India through the Ministry of External Affairs. The controversy highlights a disagreement over the allocation of responsibilities between the state and central governments.

Chaudhary’s remarks in the Lok Sabha signal a larger debate about the delineation of powers in the Indian federal system, sparking discussions about constitutional jurisdictions and potential encroachments. This incident raises questions about the evolving nature of federalism in India and the need for dialogue between the different levels of government to clarify their respective roles and responsibilities.

Such controversies underline the significance of the rule of law and constitutional guidelines in ensuring the smooth functioning of the federal structure.