CPI-M Faces Dilemma as Kerala CM Vijayan’s Daughter Implicated in SFIO Case
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Synopsis
The Serious Fraud Investigation Office's charge sheet against Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan's daughter, Veena, alleging illegal payments for mining sanctions, has created turmoil for the CPI-M during its Party Congress in Tamil Nadu. The differing reactions from party leaders highlight internal divisions as they navigate the political and legal implications.
Key Takeaways
- Veena Vijayan accused of receiving Rs 2.70 crore in illegal payments.
- The situation poses challenges for CPI-M during its 24th Party Congress.
- Internal divisions emerge within the party regarding leadership support.
- P.A. Mohammed Riyas may face scrutiny due to family ties.
- Future leadership dynamics could shift significantly based on this case.
Thiruvananthapuram, April 5 (NationPress) The Serious Fraud Investigation Office's (SFIO) charge sheet alleging that Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's daughter Veena Vijayan accepted illicit payments totaling Rs 2.70 crore from Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd (CMRL) in return for mining approvals has come as a significant shock for the CPI-M during its ongoing 24th Party Congress in Tamil Nadu's Madurai.
Despite Vijayan being the undisputed leader of the party in Kerala and nationally, this revelation has not been well received by a faction within the leadership, particularly those from West Bengal, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and northern regions of India.
While General Secretary Prakash Karat mentioned that the party would address this matter both politically and legally, the contrasting remarks from West Bengal state Secretary Mohammed Salim have dampened spirits among those staunchly supporting Vijayan, highlighting a lack of consensus among the top leadership regarding Vijayan and the situation involving his daughter.
Salim stated that the legal issues must be handled directly by the individual involved, while the party will manage the political ramifications.
Although there has been no dissent against Vijayan within the Kerala unit, some insiders are becoming increasingly uneasy, raising questions about the aspirations of CPI-M Politburo member M.A. Baby as the selection of a new General Secretary approaches.
It is commonly understood that Vijayan and Baby do not share a common vision, yet a larger faction within the party appears to favor Baby.
Nonetheless, another faction argues that with half of the one million party members based in Kerala, electing a new General Secretary from the same state could risk reducing the party's national relevance.
With Vijayan’s daughter embroiled in controversy, all attention is on whether Vijayan will maneuver to marginalize Baby to garner support from influential colleagues in his efforts to secure backing for himself and his daughter.
A political analyst suggested that another potential issue for Vijayan is his son-in-law, P.A. Mohammed Riyas, the state Tourism Minister, who was quickly promoted to significant roles, including a position in the powerful state Secretariat.
"Since this Party Congress is likely to be Vijayan’s last, his ambition for another promotion for Riyas to the influential Central Committee is noteworthy, and it remains uncertain if the party leadership will approve it, given the predicament surrounding Veena," the analyst speculated.
