Kerala’s ruling CPI-M expelled V. Kunjikrishnan, a senior member of its Kannur district committee, for allegedly disclosing irregularities in the Dhanaraj Martyrs’ Fund. The expulsion was announced by district Secretary K.K. Ragesh, who accused Kunjikrishnan of siding with the party’s adversaries. Kunjikrishnan’s public interview on Asianet News, owned by state BJP President Rajeev Chandrasekhar, triggered the expulsion.
Ragesh mentioned that the allegations against Payyannur MLA T.I. Madhusoodanan were baseless and driven by personal animosity. An internal inquiry commission found that Kunjikrishnan’s accusations were unfounded and aimed at tarnishing Madhusoodanan’s reputation. The party claimed to have evidence of information leakage by Kunjikrishnan, questioning his adherence to communist principles.
Regarding the controversy over fund collection receipt books, Ragesh admitted to typographical errors in some books and lapses in their proper disposal. While some receipt books were missing, Ragesh clarified that the funds collected were not mishandled by Madhusoodanan. The party assured that the funds were utilized for noble causes without any financial losses.
Kunjikrishnan, a long-time CPI-M member, expressed no surprise at his expulsion, stating that he stood by his actions. He emphasized that his decision to go public was a last resort after internal appeals failed. Kunjikrishnan affirmed his commitment to his stance and ruled out joining any other political party.
