Thiruvananthapuram, Tuesday, May 25, 2010: The Kerala Chief Minister V.S Achuthanandan and Electricity Minister A.K Balan criticised T. Balakrishnan, Principal Secretary (Industries & Commerce) for his remarks justifying the Coco Cola and Pepsi factory.

Minister A.K Balan told T. Balakrishnan’s remarks was against the Government’s stance and that the Government’s proclamation couldn’t be made by IAS officers. Balan added that the officers would have their own views regarding matters but they cannot express their views as government’s proclamation.

Industries department Principal Secretary T. Balakrishnan had earlier told that it was the determination of his department that saved Pepsi Company in Puthussery from closure. Balakrishnan in the presence of industries minister Elamaram Kareem said that it was unfortunate that the department was not able to save Coco Cola factory in Plachimanda. He was speaking in seminar organised by KSIDC.

The principal secretary came with such a comment when the committee appointed by government reported that Coca Cola factory incurred loss to the government