- By Raju Kumar
- Thu, 21 May 2026 11:11 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Kerala News: Just four days after assuming office, Kerala's new Chief Minister, VD Satheesan, has found himself at the center of a controversy, which is not linked to any government decision or administrative policy. The controversy stems from his name.
In fact, while taking the oath of office as Chief Minister, Congress leader VD Satheesan used his full official name—"Vadassery Damodara Menon Satheesan." He subsequently repeated the same name during his oath-taking as a member of the 16th Kerala Legislative Assembly.
Why Is There Row Over CM's Name?
Pronouncing his full name during the oath sparked a debate within the Congress. Some party leaders and workers questioned why Satheesan added the surname "Menon" to his name, when until now his public political identity had been simply "VD Satheesan."
When taking the oath of office as an MLA in 2021, Satheesan identified himself simply as "VD Satheesan". But this time, he used his full name, which includes the word "Menon".
What Is Political In 'Menon'
In Kerala, the surname "Menon" is traditionally associated with the Nair community, considered an upper caste. Subsequently, some Congress leaders believe that the move by Satheesan could send a message contrary to the party's secular and inclusive image.
Why Unease Growing Within the Congress?
This move has triggered various discussions within Congress circles. Some leaders believe there may be a political message behind it. Indeed, identity-based politics has intensified in Kerala politics in recent years. The BJP and CPM have consistently raised questions about the Congress-led UDF's ties with organisations like the IUML and Jamaat-e-Islami. Some Congress leaders believe that Satheesan's use of the surname "Menon" could be seen as an attempt to send a message to the Hindu community, especially Nair voters.
Congress Leaders Raise Questions
Congress leader Jinto John wrote in a Facebook post that the Congress' strength lies in its inclusive politics, where leaders avoid caste-based surnames. He wrote, "I will always remain 'Jinto John,' not 'Thekkumkattil John Roman Catholic Jinto.' My politics is determined by my beliefs."
Congress leader VR Anoop also commented on social media, saying the chief minister needs to study Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar more seriously. He wrote, "Caste continues to be a source of social power and social capital in Kerala. Therefore, the use of caste-based identities in public life is a sensitive issue."
NSS And SNDP Express Displeasure
According to reports, two influential Hindu social organisations in Kerala - the Nair Service Society (NSS) and SNDP Yogam - were not enthusiastic about Satheesan's appointment as chief minister.
This has further fueled discussions in political circles about whether using his full name is a strategy to send a political message to these communities.
CM Satheesan's Explanation
After the controversy escalated, CM Satheesan clarified that there was nothing wrong with it. Speaking to the media, he said, "What's wrong with me using my father's name? Shouldn't I remember him?" He further said, "Both my parents passed away before I became an MLA. I used my father's name. This is normal. This is the name listed in my passport."
(With Jargan.com inputs)