**Modi Takes a Jibe at INDIA Bloc During Kerala Port Inauguration**
Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a pointed remark at the INDIA bloc while inaugurating the Vizhinjam International Seaport project in Kerala on Friday. Sharing the stage with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, PM Modi quipped that the event would likely disrupt the sleep of many. “I want to tell the Chief Minister, you are a strong pillar of the INDI alliance, and Shashi Tharoor is also here,” he said with a smile, adding, “Today’s event is going to disturb the sleep of many.”
The inauguration took place in Thiruvananthapuram and was significant as the project was developed by the Adani Group, which has faced criticism from the INDIA bloc over allegations of crony capitalism. Tharoor, representing the Congress party, a key member of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), had previously praised the Modi government on various issues, including India’s diplomatic stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Rajeev Chandrasekhar, who recently contested against Tharoor for the Thiruvananthapuram seat, also acknowledged Tharoor as “one of the few sane voices in Congress.” Chandrasekhar, the BJP’s Kerala state unit president, was present at the event alongside other prominent political figures, including Rajya Sabha MP John Brittas and Kerala cabinet ministers.
Earlier in the day, Tharoor welcomed PM Modi to Kerala, humorously noting that he barely made it in time for the Prime Minister’s welcome panel due to delays at the Delhi airport. He expressed his anticipation for the commissioning of the Vizhinjam port, a project he has been “proudly” involved with since its inception.
The Vizhinjam International Seaport, developed under a public-private partnership by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd, is estimated to have cost around Rs 8,867 crore. The project marks a significant milestone in Kerala’s infrastructure development and is expected to enhance trade and commerce in the region.
In conclusion, PM Modi’s remarks during the inauguration not only highlighted the political dynamics at play but also underscored the importance of the Vizhinjam port project for Kerala’s economic future.
**FAQ**
**What is the significance of the Vizhinjam International Seaport?**
The Vizhinjam International Seaport is a major infrastructure project aimed at boosting trade and commerce in Kerala, developed by Adani Ports under a public-private partnership, with an estimated cost of Rs 8,867 crore.