CPI(M) report blames factionalism for Palakkad poll defeat

CPI(M) state secretary MV Govindan addressing the party’s extended district meeting in Palakkad on Saturday. | Photo credit: KK Mustafah

Factionalism within the CPI(M) contributed to the party’s electoral defeats in Thrithala and Kongad, according to an organizational report submitted at the party’s Palakkad district conference on Saturday.

District secretary EN Suresh Babu presented the report after CPI(M) state secretary MV Govindan inaugurated the conference at the district committee office.

The report said that factionalism along with consolidation of minority votes contributed to the defeat of MB Rajesh in Thrithala. In Kongad, the party lost a significant share of its traditional votes. The decline was also seen in panchayats where the CPI(M) has a strong organizational base, the report said.

The report also alleged that some CPI(M) leaders were involved in illegal land deals in Attappady and demanded disclosure of the leaders’ assets. She criticized what she described as the party’s growing ties to real estate interests.

Mr. Govindan said differences among party leaders contributed to the defeats in Thrithala, Kongad and some other constituencies. He also criticized the functioning of the district secretariat.

General discussion of the report will continue Sunday, followed by responses from state and district leaders.

A public meeting will be held in the town on Sunday afternoon. Mr. Govindan will open the assembly.

Published – 03 October 2026 21:00 IST