'I had dengue fever; attended budget session against my doctor's advice': MLA responds to claims of sleeping in assembly

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: C K Hareendran, the MLA from Parassala, has responded to a video circulating on social media that allegedly shows him sleeping during budget discussions. He clarified that he had been undergoing treatment for dengue fever for the past week and had not fully recovered when he attended the budget discussions.

In a Facebook post, he said that he decided to attend the crucial budget session despite his doctor's advice to rest because he felt a responsibility to fulfil the mandate given to him by the people. He described the circulation of a few seconds of footage taken out of context as cheap political propaganda.

He explained that he had been admitted to a hospital in Neyyattinkara for treatment after contracting dengue fever. Although doctors had advised complete rest, he decided to participate in the assembly as important budget discussions were taking place.

Hareendran noted that he not only marked his attendance but also spoke during the budget debate and raised issues concerning the Parassala constituency. He argued that isolating a few moments from several hours of Assembly proceedings to create a misleading narrative was politically motivated.

He added that throughout his public life, his sense of responsibility toward the people has guided his actions. Even while recovering from illness, he chose to represent his constituents rather than remain at rest.

Acknowledging that physical exhaustion after dengue is a reality, Hareendran said it was unfortunate that his health condition was being mocked and used for political attacks instead of being viewed with basic human compassion.

He emphasized that while public representatives are open to criticism, such criticism should be based on facts and political positions—not on an individual's health. Turning someone's illness into a political weapon, he said, reflects poorly on political culture.

The MLA concluded by thanking everyone who enquired about his health, expressed concern, and wished him a speedy recovery. He assured the public that he would continue to discharge the responsibilities entrusted to him with the same sincerity and commitment.