CPI seeks rehabilitation package for residents of P&T flats

P&T Apartment Complex at Mundamveli in West Kochi.

The Communist Party of India (CPI) has demanded an immediate announcement of a rehabilitation package for the residents of the P&T housing complex in Mundamveli, who are on indefinite protest against their alleged deplorable living conditions.

Alliance partner Left Democratic Front (LDF) also called for a comprehensive investigation to bring to justice those responsible for alleged structural deficiencies that led to the crumbling and leaking apartments. A delegation led by CPI district secretary N. Arun visited the complex on Tuesday and expressed solidarity with the protesting residents. He claimed that CPI had already pointed out the deficiencies during the construction phase.

The visit assumed significance in the wake of former Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) MLA KJ Maxy’s controversial remarks about the affected families, which forced the CPI(M) district leadership to issue an explanation and reaffirm its solidarity with the residents. Mr. Maxy accused the residents of benefiting from the housing project implemented by the LDF government only to oppose the political coup after the change of state government. Although Mr Maxy has since retracted the statement, residents have settled for nothing less than an unconditional apology.

Asked about Mr. Maxy’s comment, Mr. Arun said that the CPI(M) itself had rejected it and that an individual’s opinion should not be taken seriously. However, he called the comment “inappropriate.”

“Prima facie it is clear that the residents are living in very deplorable conditions. A rehabilitation package with better conditions should be announced immediately,” Mr. Arun said.

Residents should be resettled without delay. An investigation should be announced to identify those responsible and ensure they are punished. Fines should be imposed on the culprits and the amount distributed among the affected families. Deficiencies in the construction are visible even to children. The CPI will stand firmly with the residents in their protests and legal battles. Mr. Arun said that the issue should not be viewed through the lens of political affiliation.

CPI state councilors KN Sugathan and T. Reghuvaran, assistant secretary MM George and executive member KK Santhosh Babu were part of the delegation.

Published – 29 Sep 2026 22:35 IST