The CPI(M) is experiencing internal dissent, with criticism towards senior leader Pinarayi Vijayan escalating after a significant electoral loss in Kerala. This discontent emerges during a three-day review meeting in Delhi, which Vijayan is absent from, as party members evaluate the defeat and growing dissatisfaction within their ranks.
The party leadership is taken aback not only by the magnitude of the defeat but also by the emergence of open revolt within party ranks. Calls for Vijayan’s resignation, a first in his political career, have arisen from sections of his own party machinery. Notably, at the CPI(M) Parassala Area Committee meeting, area secretary S. Ajayakumar urged Pinarayi to resign from his MLA post, holding him accountable for the defeat and suggesting he step down with dignity.
Criticism has intensified further, with members at various committee meetings targeting P.A. Mohammed Riyas, Vijayan’s son-in-law and a State Minister, for the loss. The situation escalated when state committee member Chandran cautioned that disciplinary action might be taken against Riyas unless evidence was presented. Despite the criticism against party leaders like M.V. Govindan and Pinarayi for their political approach and public behavior, there are no clear signs of leadership changes.
The CPI(M) is grappling with a series of setbacks, including the recent electoral loss, following defeats in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and the 2025 local body polls. Despite assurances of a comeback after each setback, the party continues to face challenges, marking a significant crisis for the once-dominant Left stronghold in Kerala.
