NSS warns against attempts to use it for political gains

The Nair Service Society (NSS) broke its long silence on Thursday over controversies surrounding its political stance, warning against attempts to use the community organisation as a pawn for political gains.

Speaking at the inauguration of the All Kerala Nair Delegates Meet, held as part of the 149th Mannam Jayanti celebrations at Perunna, NSS general secretary G. Sukumaran Nair held that the organisation would step in if there were any lapses in the investigation of the gold theft at Sabarimala or in apprehending all those responsible. He added that the NSS decided to send a representative to the Global Ayyappa Sangamam, organised by the LDF government, as part of its moral duty to protect the custom and rituals of Sabarimala.

“The Sabarimala issue should not be politicised as this is fundamentally about preserving faith. No one should think that NSS can be used for political gain in this matter. The NSS will not bow to threats when it comes to safeguarding faith in Sabarimala,” Mr. Nair said.

He also clarified the community organisation’s position on the gold theft episode, noting that certain campaigns by vested interests had caused confusion among community members. “The NSS has no political agenda, but follows an egalitarian outlook that enables our members to engage with any political discourse responsibly,” he said.

Dissident movements

Mr. Nair further criticised dissident movements within the organisation, asserting that such efforts aim to destabilise the NSS. “Some individuals, who previously held positions in the organisation, are behind these campaigns. They are targeting the leadership to undermine the NSS. However, the organisation is strong enough to counter any such attempts,” he added.

The meeting was presided over by NSS president M. Sasikumar, with directors and board members also in attendance. The Mannam Jayanti celebrations will continue on Friday. Cyriac Thomas, former member of the National Minority Commission, will inaugurate the event at 11 a.m. Mr. Nair will welcome the gathering, while Mr. Sasikumar will preside. Poet and lyricist Rajeev Alumkal will deliver a remembrance speech on Mannath Padmanabhan on the occasion.