The State government has sent back a request by Minister of State for Tourism (Independent charge) K.J. Alphons seeking VIP security arrangements during a two-day visit planned to Kochi over the coming weekend.
Citing the model code of conduct for the Lok Sabha elections, the General Administration (Political) Department has asked the Minister to furnish a letter stating that his visit is “purely on official business which cannot be avoided in public interest and no political activity of any kind is envisaged during such tour.” This letter has to be certified by the Secretary of Tourism, Government of India, and forwarded to the Kerala Chief Secretary, according to the March 12 communique by B. Sunilkumar, Joint Secretary and State Protocol Officer. The State government has referred the matter to Teeka Ram Meena, Chief Electoral Officer, Kerala. As per his tour programme, Mr. Alphons would arrive in Kochi on Saturday, and meet India Tourism officials on Sunday. His office had requested the State government to extend facilities mandated by protocol such as accommodation, transportation, and security.