Congress MLA Chandy Oommen In NHAI Advocates’ List

As many NHAI expansion projects are facing roadblocks and public protests in the state, in an unexpected development that can cause mummers and even embarrassment within the party, Congress MLA Chandy Oommen has been included in the list of empanelled advocates for the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). The NHAI operates under the Union government led by BJP.

The NHAI’s Kerala regional office published a list of 63 advocates, including the name of the young Puthuppally MLA, a move that has raised eyebrows due to the political affiliations involved.

Lawyers associated with the CPM and other political parties are also on the list, which was released on 7 September by S.K. Mallik, General Manager of NHAI’s Kerala office. The advocates were, according to reports, selected for their expertise in land acquisition cases, arbitration, and court matters.

Responding to the development, Chandy Oommen clarified that he had applied for the empanelment before becoming an MLA, stating, “I was included in the November 2022 list after applying. This is merely a renewed list, not a new appointment. I have not submitted any No Objection Certificate for this renewal,” as quoted by The New Indian Express.

He further stressed that the selection was not political, nor was it an appointment by the Central government, explaining that it was made solely by NHAI’s regional office for the Alappuzha project. When questioned about whether he would step down from the role, Oommen stated he would consult with his party leadership before making a decision.

Interestingly, the NH-66 expansion project has already facing several hurdles including court cases. One of the major cases regarding the Alappuzha leg of NH-66 project is for the elevated-pillared flyover in Kayamkulam. The locals in Kayamkulam are also in war path with Congress and its alliance openly supporting the demand. Alappuzha MP, Congress general secretary in charge of organisation KC Venugopal has also joined the protesters and had met the Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari for a solution. The MP had also raised the issue in the Parliament when it met last. These factors are going to be critical for Oommen as he will be representing the NHAI in matters like these.