TK Govindan pays floral tributes to late CPI(M) leader Kodiyeri Balakrishnan during his visit at his home in Thalassery, Kannur on Wednesday. | Photo credit: MOHAN SK
A fresh political debate was triggered after expelled Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader TK Govindan, who won the Assembly elections with United Democratic Front (UDF) support from Taliparamba, visited the residence of late CPI(M) leader Kodiyeri Balakrishnan and met his wife Vinodini Kodiyeri and son Bineesh Kodiyeri.
Ms Vinodini rejected the criticism surrounding the visit, saying Mr Govindan was “not a traitor” and argued that internal party matters should be left to the party leadership.
She said Mr Govindan shared a close personal bond with her late husband and remained welcome in their home. “Govindan is no stranger to us. We treat visitors with respect. Party leaders should take decisions regarding the party,” she said.
Ms Vinodini said the views on whether the party would face the current situation if Kodiyeri were alive should be decided by the party and its members. Emphasizing the personal nature of the visit, she said she and her children reserve the right to receive anyone who visits their home. “Whether the party accepted or rejected TK Govindan is not my concern. I have not rejected him. If he comes to us, I cannot ask him not to come,” she said.
Reacting to the controversy, Bineesh Kodiyeri said the visit had no political angle. “I stand by the party’s stand. TK Govindan is someone who has personally supported me. Whether I agree with his political stand is not up for debate,” he said.
The visit comes against the backdrop of heightened political tension in Kannur following Mr. Govindan’s victory over the CPI(M) candidate in Taliparamba, adding a personal dimension to an already sensitive political environment.
Published – 06 May 2026 20:50 IST
