PM Modi Hugs VV Rakesh During Kerala Visit; Former DGP R Sreelekha Explains Why She Stayed Away

Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala: During his visit to Kerala, Prime Minister Narendra Modi warmly embraced Thiruvananthapuram’s first BJP Mayor, VV Rakesh, in a moment that has gone viral on social media. At the same event, another female leader was seen touching the Prime Minister’s feet. However, former DGP and BJP corporator R Sreelekha was notably absent from this interaction, prompting widespread speculation about her response.

Sreelekha Breaks Silence

In a video statement, R Sreelekha clarified that her decision to maintain distance from the Prime Minister on stage was guided by her three decades of police training. She emphasized that the speculation about her being upset for not being appointed as Mayor was misleading. Having recently entered politics, Sreelekha explained that her actions were based on discipline and protocol learned over 33 years of service, not political disagreements.

What Sreelekha Said

Sreelekha, representing Kesasthamangalam ward, said she has handled numerous VVIP duties during her police career and considers discipline paramount. She explained, “When the Prime Minister arrived, I remained at my assigned seat, following the training that taught me not to approach anyone without invitation. I felt it would not be appropriate to move near the VVIP entrance through which he would pass, so I stayed in place.”

She further clarified her political stance, saying, “I want to assure everyone not to be misled by such reports — I remain a committed member of the BJP.” The footage shows her standing at her designated spot on the stage during the public rally at Putharikandam Ground, observing the proceedings while other leaders approached the Prime Minister to greet him. Later, she left the stage from the same location where she had been standing.

Context

VV Rakesh, the first BJP Mayor of Thiruvananthapuram, received widespread attention during the Prime Minister’s visit, which also included the inauguration of several developmental projects across the Kerala capital. Sreelekha’s explanation puts an end to speculation regarding her absence from the Prime Minister’s personal greeting.