Did Ayisha Potty Justify Her Move from CPI(M) to Congress Against 'Class Traitor' Accusations?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Ayisha Potty challenges CPI(M) labels.
- She criticizes development project stalls.
- Her political journey raises loyalty questions.
- CPI(M) defends its position against her claims.
- Congress sees potential in Potty's popularity.
Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 14 (NationPress) Three-time legislator Ayisha Potty has firmly rebutted the CPI(M)’s allegations labeling her a “class traitor” after her decision to join the Congress, challenging what she describes as the party’s selective application of terms.
On Tuesday, Potty officially became a member of the Congress party.
She questioned whether similar labels were applied to leaders like P. Sarin and Shobhana George, who transitioned from Congress to CPI(M) in the past.
In response to claims of betrayal, Potty criticized Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal for not completing the development projects she initiated during her time in office.
She noted that many of the programs she conceived were either halted or left incomplete, despite her persistent appeals to the minister.
“When an individual works diligently and fulfills the responsibilities assigned by the party on three occasions, only to be told there is no room left, how else can that situation be interpreted?” she questioned.
Potty, who has represented Kottarakara since 2006, was not renominated in 2021; instead, Balagopal was awarded the candidacy and subsequently became Finance Minister.
Additionally, she mentioned being intentionally excluded from events she had initiated, labeling this marginalization as an ideological betrayal.
Potty urged the CPI(M) to permit individuals to voice their grievances freely within the party.
On the other hand, the CPI(M) dismissed her remarks, accusing her of pursuing political ambitions.
Party General Secretary M.A. Baby stated that Potty had been granted numerous opportunities, highlighting her service as an MLA three times and as District Panchayat President.
“Claims of her being sidelined lack any foundation,” he asserted, adding that her departure from the party would not be respected.
He emphasized that her exit would not significantly affect Kottarakkara or the larger electoral scenario in Kollam district.
Meanwhile, the Congress party has quickly positioned Potty as a vital asset in Kottarakkara.
Party officials believe that her popularity among women and various community organizations, coupled with Congress’ traditional voter base, could shift the dynamics in a constituency that the UDF has not captured in nearly two decades.