Kerala CM Faces Opposition Criticism Over Helicopter Use for Personal Trip

Kerala's Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan is facing significant criticism from opposition leaders for allegedly using a government helicopter for personal travel. This incident has raised concerns about the misuse of public resources, especially given the state's financial challenges. Reports suggest that Satheesan used the helicopter to visit his father-in-law in Kochi, but adverse weather forced the aircraft to return to Thiruvananthapuram. Opposition figures have pointed out the contradiction in Satheesan's stance on helicopter use, which he previously criticized. Former ministers have also weighed in on the controversy, further fueling the debate.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 2, 2026, 07:08 IST

Opposition Targets Kerala Chief Minister for Helicopter Usage

Thiruvananthapuram, August 1 - Kerala's Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has come under fire from the opposition regarding his use of a government helicopter for personal travel. Left leaders have accused him of misusing public resources. Reports indicate that Satheesan recently utilized the helicopter to visit his father-in-law, who was receiving treatment in Kochi. The helicopter reportedly took off from the Kodia Ground Golf Club but had to return to the state capital due to adverse weather conditions, preventing it from landing in Kochi.

According to reports, once the weather improved, the helicopter departed again. The opposition criticized Satheesan, asserting that he had previously taken a strong stance against the use of helicopter services, citing the state's financial crisis, particularly against the former Left Democratic Front (LDF). They claimed that the Chief Minister's actions contradicted his earlier position after assuming office.

Former ministers and CPI(M) leaders V. Shivan Kutty and M.B. Rajesh expressed their disapproval through separate Facebook posts. Without directly naming Satheesan or referencing the controversy, Shivan Kutty made a veiled comment about a helicopter making a U-turn. Rajesh alleged that the Chief Minister had taken two personal trips using the helicopter.