During the inauguration of the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a veiled jab at the opposition INDIA bloc, noting that the joint presence of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Congress MP Shashi Tharoor at the event would cause “sleepless nights” for many. Though his remarks were not fully translated, PM Modi commented that the intended message had still reached the right people.

In his address, CM Vijayan expressed sincere thanks to PM Modi for inaugurating the significant infrastructure project and commended the Adani Group for its successful execution. Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, who represents Thiruvananthapuram in Parliament, shared images on social media showing him welcoming the Prime Minister despite travel delays from Delhi. The Vizhinjam port, constructed at an estimated cost of ₹8,867 crore, was developed under a public-private partnership by Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd. It officially received its commercial commissioning certificate in December after a successful trial run.

Highlighting the port's significance, PM Modi noted that India is now among the top three nations globally for seafarers. He added that port efficiency and capacity have greatly improved over the past decade, with turnaround times reduced by 30%. The Vizhinjam port is expected to significantly boost India's transshipment capabilities. In a lighter remark, Modi also quipped that people in Gujarat might be disheartened that a major project led by fellow Gujarati Gautam Adani was established in Kerala instead of their home state.