MEA’s response to Kerala appointing official for external cooperation ‘most unfortunate’: Veteran diplomat Venu Rajamony

MEA criticizes Kerala government's appointment of officer for 'external cooperation,' sparking debate on state-central relations.

“The Ministry of External Affairs’ (MEA) statement in the context of Kerala government appointing an officer for ‘external cooperation’ is “most unfortunate” and contrary to the Modi government’s own policy and efforts to support State governments of the country expand contacts with the world, especially in fields of trade, investment, cultural cooperation, people to people contacts,” said a veteran diplomat who himself served in a similar role with the Kerala government in the recent past.

Speaking to The Hindu, former Indian Ambassador to the Netherlands and Consul General in Dubai Venu Rajamony pointed out that MEA has a States Division specially created to support States in their external contacts. He also said that PM Modi when he was Chief Minister in Gujarat travelled abroad and interacted with diplomats based in Delhi extensively.

“The ‘Vibrant Gujarat’ investment promotion event is actively supported by MEA and all Indian Missions abroad. Indian Missions are provided special funds to organise activities in cooperation with individual States and during visits of CMs and State Ministers.

Foreign service officers are encouraged to adopt particular States and maintain continuous contacts with the States concerned throughout their career,” Mr. Rajamony said. Indian Ambassadors abroad are encouraged to visit States and discuss with State governments how external cooperation can be strengthened. 

Responding to a question on the issue in Kerala, MEA’s official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had cautioned the States on July 25 to stay away from domains that do not fall within the “constitutional jurisdiction” of the States.

Mr. Rajamony served with the Kerala government as an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) with rank of Chief Secretary in charge of External Cooperation from 2021-2022, based in the Kerala House in New Delhi, holding similar responsibilities to what has been now given to IAS officer K. Vasuki in Thiruvananthapuram.  Ambassador Rajamony described MEA’s response in the latest matter as an “overreaction” influenced by misleading news reports that Kerala has appointed a Foreign Secretary and criticism by the State BJP chief that the State is encroaching into centre’s domain.

 “The State government of Haryana has a similar official. How come MEA had never raised any objection when it comes to activities of Gujarat and Haryana? Why suddenly an objection to Kerala?,” said Mr. Rajamony saying such an objection will only lead to allegations that MEA is following dual standards and discriminating against States ruled by the Opposition parties.