In a firm defence of coalition unity, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has strongly reiterated the Communist Party of India's (CPI) crucial position within the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF). The CM's statements came amidst internal criticism and public scrutiny following the front's performance in recent local body elections.
CM Reaffirms CPI as Trusted Ally, Counters Internal Criticism
Addressing a news conference in Thiruvananthapuram, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan clearly stated that the CPI is the second largest constituent of the LDF and remains one of the most dependable partners of the lead party, the CPI(M). This declaration was a direct response to the political fallout and allegations that emerged after the LDF faced a setback in the local body polls.
The controversy was ignited by SNDP Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesan, who had launched a sharp attack against the CPI. Natesan held the CPI primarily responsible, along with the CM and the CPI(M), for the LDF's electoral disappointment. However, Vijayan firmly dismissed this accusation. The Chief Minister said he did not subscribe to Natesan's view that the CPI had acted as a backstabber, thereby shielding his ally from the charge.
"I Am Not Binoy Viswam": CM on Offering Natesan a Lift
The press conference took a more pointed turn when Vijayan was questioned about criticism from within his own front. CPI state secretary Binoy Viswam had earlier remarked that he would not have offered Vellappally Natesan a lift in his car if he were in the CM's position. This was in reference to an incident where Vijayan had taken Natesan with him to the Global Ayyappa Sangamam venue in Sabarimala.
Dismissing Viswam's stance, the Chief Minister said he had no regrets about his gesture. "I still believe there was nothing wrong in my gesture. I am not Binoy Viswam," Vijayan asserted, drawing a clear line between his personal political conduct and the opinion of his ally's state secretary.
Vijayan Justifies Stance on Karnataka Bulldozer Controversy
Beyond the internal LDF dynamics, the Chief Minister also used the platform to justify his previous comments on a contentious issue in a neighbouring state. He defended his criticism of the bulldozer controversy in Karnataka, where authorities have used the machinery in actions against alleged encroachments.
Vijayan argued that certain principles transcend state boundaries. "Views on matters like the use of a bulldozer against the poor do not consider state borders," he stated. He emphasized that such developments deserve criticism regardless of where they occur. "It doesn't matter whether it happens in UP, Karnataka or somewhere else," the CM added, framing his critique as a matter of ideological consistency rather than regional politics.
The Chief Minister's comprehensive press interaction underscores the ongoing efforts to manage alliance cohesion after an electoral setback while also positioning the LDF government on broader national issues. His unequivocal support for the CPI aims to quell internal dissent, and his comments on Karnataka reinforce a political narrative aligned with the Left's stance on welfare and rights.
