Minister U. T. Khader found himself in the whirlpool of criticisms for his remarks at a programme  here in which he had said that those protesting the visit of Kerala Chief Minister (CM) Pinarayi Vijayan were not even fit to be compared with the CM’s chappals and that those opposing the Constitution should be hit with footwear.

His remarks had come at a programme in which Pinarayi Vijayan was the chief guest.

After the tone and tenor of his statement received widespread opposition, Khader clarified that he had not made these utterances to insult or deride anyone.

“A Constitutionally elected CM of our neighbouring State, who is a Statesman aged 70, had come here as our guest. I was pained at the damage suffered by the standing and cultural heritage of our district during his visit. Out of the agony I suffered on these counts, I expressed my feelings,” he stated.