The proposal to launch Indira Canteen as part of the 50-day action plan of the United Democratic Front (UDF)-led Kochi Corporation has triggered a political row, with the Opposition Left Democratic Front (LDF) dubbing it a conspiracy to undermine Samridhi@Kochi, a budget eatery jointly run by the Corporation and Kudumbashree as part of a hunger-free initiative.

Mayor V.K. Minimol said the project aims to ensure that anyone visiting Kochi can have three meals a day for just ₹50, with breakfast and dinner priced at ₹10 each. She pointed out that Samridhi@Kochi currently offers only subsidised lunch. Initially, the proposed canteen will be opened alongside Samridhi@Kochi outlets at Paramara Road in Ernakulam North and Fort Kochi before expanding to more centres.