The no-confidence motion moved against the Pinarayi Vijayan led Kerala government failed as the opposition could only gain 40 votes in support of the motion in the 140 member assembly here on Monday. Congress had moved the no-confidence alleging rampant corruption in the pretext of COVID-19, ANI reported. 

Demanding the resignation of Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan, Opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala had accused corruption in Life Mission, a government scheme, to provide houses for the needy.

ALSO READ | Congress moves no-confidence motion against Kerala govt

Congress MLA VD Satheesan tabled the no-confidence motion, alleging that the gold smuggling mafia used Kerala Chief Minister’s Office to run their operations in the State. He also said that a ‘consultancy raj’ has formed in Kerala under the ruling CPI(M)-led Left Government in the State. 

Referring to CM Vijayan as the captain of the ship, the Congress leader said that the captain is unable to control the ship as the problem lies in his cabin.

Subsequently, the assembly witnessed a heated debate which lasted for 9 hours in which the CM rubbished the claims raised by the Congress and said that the ‘people do not trust UDF.

ALSO READ | Opposition to bring no-confidence motion against Kerala’s Vijayan govt

He referred to Congress members as ‘BJP agents’ and said that Congress was facing a “pathetic situation.”

“Most of the Congress leaders are waiting for the BJP to call them. They are ready to join the saffron party anytime. Just waiting for a phone call,” Vijayan said.

Two members of the UDF ally Kerala Congress Jose K Mani faction abstained themselves during the voting. BJP’s lone member O Rajagopal also stayed away.