The Political Rift: Pinarayi Vijayan Breaks Silence on Independent Contenders

Kerala's Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, addresses factional discord within the CPI(M) as leaders choose to run as independents backed by Congress. Citing emerging 'parliamentary ambitions', Vijayan calls the move a betrayal, while discussing his position on several controversies involving party member selections and political allegations.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has voiced concern over the growing 'parliamentary ambitions' within the CPI(M), following three leaders contesting Assembly elections as independents supported by Congress. The leaders, named G Sudhakaran, V Kunhikrishnan, and T K Govindan, have pursued independent nominations for Assembly seats in Ambalappuzha, Payyanur, and Taliparamba, respectively.

Vijayan labelled these actions as a betrayal and a shift in traditional party norms, particularly criticizing senior leaders who have done so. Discussing various intra-party controversies, he reiterated the importance of structured decision-making, specifically addressing allegations of nepotism and favor towards specific candidates, including the wife of the CPI(M) state secretary.

On accusations of favoritism towards his son-in-law, PWD Minister P A Mohammed Riyas, Vijayan denied bias and emphasized collective decision-making within the LDF. The Chief Minister also dismissed corruption allegations against his daughter's firm as politically driven. Furthermore, he acknowledged BJP's unexpected wins and reaffirmed CPI(M)'s stance on communal organizations and the Sabarimala issue.

(With inputs from agencies.)