Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has directed the Public Works Secretary to cancel an order for carrying out maintenance to the tune of over ₹1 crore at Cliff House, the Chief Minister’s official residence.

The official has also been asked to submit an urgent report on issue of such an order without the knowledge of the Chief Minister or his office.

The Chief Minister had made it clear when the United Democratic Front (UDF) came to power that no unnecessary beautification or construction should be held at Cliff House.

According to an explanation from the department, the order was issued as part of the safety audit prepared since 2022.

The Chief Minister had instructed that no work should be held as per the estimate prepared during the tenure of the previous government; only necessary renovation should be held. However, as the order was issued bypassing the Chief Minister’s instructions, a report was sought from the Public Works Secretary.