Why Was CPI(M) Leader Sudhakaran Excluded from the Memorial Event?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- G. Sudhakaran paid tribute alone at P. Krishna Pillai's remembrance.
- His exclusion from the event reflects ongoing tensions within CPI(M).
- Sudhakaran has been sidelined from party functions recently.
- He has expressed disappointment over the sudden change in tradition.
- Despite rumors, he remains loyal to CPI(M).
Alappuzha, Aug 19 (NationPress) Senior CPI(M) leader and former two-time minister G. Sudhakaran paid his respects in solitude at Valiyachudukad on the day commemorating communist leader P. Krishna Pillai, located nearby.
The 74-year-old politician expressed that the lack of an invitation to the official memorial event has left him feeling profoundly hurt.
Sudhakaran, known for his outspoken criticism of the government, has recently experienced a growing distance from party events.
The absence of an invitation this year appears to be part of an ongoing trend, with indications from state leadership suggesting he may be excluded from future party activities as well.
Having served in the Achuthanandan cabinet (2006-11) and the initial Pinarayi Vijayan cabinet (2016-21), Sudhakaran hoped to contest in 2021 but was denied that opportunity.
For many years, while V.S. Achuthanandan remained influential in CPI(M), Sudhakaran was aligned with him until he eventually joined the Vijayan faction.
Party insiders speculate that there are concerns that Sudhakaran might use such platforms to voice his criticisms of the government, as he has in the past.
The district leadership, under directives from the state unit, organized the ceremony for Krishna Pillai’s commemoration.
CPI(M) central committee member Elamaram Kareem inaugurated the meeting, with CPI district secretary S. Solomon presiding and state secretary Binoy Viswam delivering the keynote.
However, Sudhakaran arrived only after the official program had concluded.
He visited the memorial, offered floral tributes quietly, and departed in a similar manner.
In a statement to the media, the veteran leader conveyed his disappointment, saying, "After V.S. Achuthanandan's health deteriorated, I was the one inaugurating this program annually. I have been a party member for 62 years, the most senior in this district. Yet this time, I was not invited. Until last year, I was the one inaugurating this event. I am unsure why the decision shifted so suddenly," stated Sudhakaran.
While there are rumors suggesting that the Congress-led UDF is interested in him, Sudhakaran reaffirmed his commitment to CPI(M), vowing to remain with the party for life.
This incident underscores the increasing tensions between the seasoned leader and the party, raising questions about his future within CPI(M.