CPI(M) begins three-day review of Kerala election defeat

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] has convened an extended three-day state committee meeting in Kozhikode to conduct a comprehensive review of its significant defeat in the recent Kerala Assembly elections.

Inaugurated by General Secretary M. A. Baby, the deliberations aim to identify political, ideological, and organizational shortcomings. A draft report presented during the meeting noted the party’s failure to counter allegations of a ‘BJP deal’ and criticized the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) for using communal undertones during its campaign. The report also highlighted the party’s struggle to retain its mass base among farmers and the working class.

The meeting occurs amidst scrutiny from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) regarding alleged improper payments made to an IT firm owned by the daughter of former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. While the party leadership is expected to address organizational rejuvenation and grassroots connectivity, observers note that the meeting is likely to maintain unity behind Vijayan, viewing the ED’s actions as a political move intended to weaken the leadership.