By IANS
Thiruvananthapuram : Kerala Congress-Joseph legislator Mons Joseph was Thursday sworn in as the state’s new public works minister even as the entire opposition boycotted the swearing-in ceremony.
Joseph’s elevation has been marred by allegations that his selection was done through a draw of lots at the party’s meeting earlier this month.
The manner of his selection has been termed as “undemocratic” by the opposition.
Party chairman P.J. Joseph, without commenting on the manner of selection, Thursday said that the mode of selection was the prerogative of the party and was an internal issue of the party.
Joseph’s contender, whom he edged out in the draw of lots, Surendran Pillai let the secret out on the party’s mode of selection.
Speaking to IANS former party member and now Kerala Congress (Secular) legislator P.C. George said: “After his denial, his fellow legislator Pillai said that the selection was made through a draw of lots. A petition that Mons Joseph has told a lie has been filed in a court in Kochi, and Pillai and Lok Sabha member P.C. Thomas have been asked to appear on the 27th of this month. If the case is admitted, the new minister would have to resign,” said George.
Speaking to reporters after being sworn-in, the new minister said his priority would be to see that the condition of roads in the state is improved.