A war of words erupted between the Congress and the ruling Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) over claiming credit for the completion of India's first transshipment port, the Vizhinjam International Seaport, located in Thiruvananthapuram. The political credit battle unfolded on the day of the port's inauguration.
Congress claimed that it initiated the international seaport project, while the CPI(M) countered that the credit belonged to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's government for persevering through massive protests against the port's construction.Â
Congress credited the project's conception to its veteran leader, the late Oommen Chandy. Opposition leader VD Satheesan highlighted that Pinarayi Vijayan, who was the CPI(M) Secretary when the construction began in 2015-16, had initially dismissed the project as a Rs 6,000 crore real estate venture. "Is the real estate business happening today also? Oommen Chandy back then pledged that no matter what happens, we would fulfill the project," Satheesan remarked.
In response, the CPI(M) emphasized Chief Minister Vijayan's unwavering commitment to the project amidst significant protests from the public and the opposition. The ruling party also accused Congress of supporting the protesters and calling for the project's halt.
This credit dispute is familiar. In October 2023, when the first ship arrived at the port, Congress also claimed credit for the port's planning.
### Inauguration of Vizhinjam Port
The Vizhinjam International Seaport, constructed through a public-private partnership, welcomed its first container ship, San Fernando, chartered by Maersk, on Thursday (July 11). The port, which began construction in 2016 after being allocated to APSEZ in December 2015, was officially inaugurated on Friday.
Adani Ports and APSEZ Managing Director Karan Adani expressed pride in the group's role in making India's entry into global transshipment a reality. "We had promised the people of Kerala that we would work with them to make Vizhinjam port a reality. And I am so proud that together, despite many challenges, we have done it! Elated to witness the celebrations to mark India’s entry into global transshipment. Grateful to all stakeholders," Karan Adani said on X.
Meanwhile, Congress expressed displeasure over not being invited to the inaugural trial run ceremony. "They did not invite us today. When they invited everybody else, they did not invite the opposition. But we know that people will only think of Oommen Chandy’s name when the project comes to light," Satheesan commented.
