Thiruvananthapuram: CPM state secretariat on Saturday demanded that Union govt withdraw its alleged move to ‘abolish’ Palakkad railway division.In a statement, CPM alleged that the move reflected an anti-Keralam agenda of the railways. It said the BJP-led Union govt had consistently ignored Keralam’s urgent railway requirements, including high-speed trains, new railway lines and additional services.CPM noted that a substantial portion of the division was taken away in 2008 to create the Salem division. It said the railway ministry was aware that further reducing the division’s jurisdiction could threaten its existence.The party alleged that key areas of Palakkad division, including Mangaluru, had now been transferred to Mysuru division through a secret move and without prior notice. The decision wasn’t discussed in the railway consultative committee and the MPs concerned weren’t informed, it said.There was no valid reason to alter a division that led in freight movement, passenger numbers and revenue, CPM said, alleging that the decision was taken at BJP’s behest. The statement also referred to reports of plans to take away more areas, including Pollachi, from Palakkad division. CPM warned that the people of Keralam wouldn’t remain silent in the face of what it termed a serious attack on the state’s interests.CPM criticised BJP functionaries in Keralam for maintaining silence on the issue and questioned the state govt’s response. It sought clarification on whether govt was following a policy of appeasing the Sangh Parivar in the matter.The party said Centre had a responsibility to develop Keralam’s railway network in line with the state’s transportation needs. It called for unitedly protesting any move to reduce existing railway facilities and demanded the immediate withdrawal of the proposal to abolish Palakkad division.
