PC George cracks the whip on his critics

KOCHI: Undeterred by widespread criticism from various corners, Government Chief Whip P C George said here on Monday that he would go  to any extent with his complaint against the Special Vigilance judge regarding the palmolein case.   He told reporters that the complaint was filed in accordance with his right as an Indian citizen and not in his official capacity.“The complaint was made in accordance with my constitutional rights as a citizen. I have specifically mentioned in the complaint that it was filed not as an MLA or the Government Chief Whip. However, as per norms, it was mandatory to identify myself as the Chief Whip of the ruling UDF,” George pointed out.The Kerala Congress leader defended his action of sending the letter to the President, Kerala Governor, the Chief Justice of India and others seeking intervention to examine the professional conduct of the Special Vigilance judge and take appropriate remedial measures. “I made the complaint after obtaining legal opinion from several quarters, including retired judges and leading advocates. I even consulted those who have been giving legal advice to V S Achuthanandan. Nobody can force me to retract my steps,” George said.The Vigilance Court issued the verdict when there was no petition at all. “Hence I feel the verdict was not impartial,” he said. Stating that he has utmost respect for judiciary, George said that  he was ready to tender a public apology if he was proved wrong.“So far I have not blocked the functioning of any court. I have not defamed a court or a judge. I have respect and regard to the judiciary. The judiciary itself should protect its sanctity. My petition will not defame the judiciary or judges. If it is proved that I had defamed the judiciary by filing this complaint, I am ready to tender an apology,” he said.Coming down heavily on V S Achuthanandan, George said that he was not ready to quit his post as demanded by the former “as I didn’t get the post by his largesse”.“Achuthanandan and Pinarayi Vijayan have no right to demand my resignation. M V Jayarajan, a CPM state committee member, is facing trial in a contempt of court case for using unparliamentary words against a judge. They should first expel Jayarajan,” he added.