Admitting a challenging phase, CPI-M General Secretary M. A. Baby expressed concern over the recent Kerala election loss. The party is analyzing the defeat internally following a detailed review. This setback marks the first time since 1977 that the Left failed to maintain power in any Indian state.
Acknowledging the BJP’s limited growth in Kerala, Baby noted the rise of a stronger right-wing presence in the state. Despite BJP’s defeat in Tamil Nadu, the emerging political scenario in Kerala is a cause for concern. Internal criticism has intensified against former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and state Secretary M. V. Govindan post-electoral setbacks.
Leaders within the CPI-M are demanding accountability from Vijayan and Govindan, signaling a shift in the party’s internal dynamics. Dissatisfaction with the current leadership is widespread, prompting calls for corrective actions. While there were demands for a special plenum, the Central Committee’s stance suggests no immediate changes, offering temporary respite to Vijayan and Govindan.
The national leadership is cautious about abrupt leadership changes in Kerala to prevent factional divides. The CPI-M seems inclined to retain Vijayan for now, preparing for a gradual transition. Vijayan’s once authoritative image has waned, hinting at an informal succession phase within the party.
Critiquing the Congress, Baby accused it of disrupting opposition unity by alleging a CPI-M-BJP understanding during elections. A special Central Committee meeting is set for July to review election reports from different states.
