Kochi, Jan 19 (NationPress) CWC member and legislator Ramesh Chennithala has accused the ruling CPI(M) of attempting to instigate communal polarisation to garner votes as the Assembly elections approach. He labeled Minister Saji Cherian's recent comments as “serious and dangerous”, asserting they form part of a calculated political strategy.

In a media briefing, Chennithala pointed out that Cherian's remarks, which referenced the number of elected officials from Kasaragod and Malappuram, followed statements from Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, indicating a notable transition by the CPI(M) from “class politics” to “communal mobilisation”.

“Even while attempting to clarify his statement, the minister merely reiterated the same arguments. This demonstrates that the communal reference was intentional, not accidental,” Chennithala claimed.

He highlighted that Kerala is witnessing a Chief Minister who has forsaken ideological commitments, now “fostering communal divisions”.

As proof, Chennithala cited the Chief Minister's willingness to defend former minister A.K. Balan's assertion that “Jamaat-e-Islami would control the Home Department if the Congress-led UDF came to power”.

“These statements are not isolated but part of a deliberate strategy,” he stated, urging the populace to stay alert against what he termed as the CPI(M)'s calculated communal tactics. Chennithala emphasized that Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan's reaction to the controversy aligns with Congress's policy.

“Opposing communalism is the Congress party's unwavering stance,” he affirmed, noting that the party has consistently adopted an inclusive approach at both the national and state levels, engaging all segments of society.

Reflecting on past experiences, Chennithala mentioned that during the administrations of former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and himself, community organizations frequently criticized the Congress, yet the party's response was to absorb criticism and progress without confrontation.

He expressed that there is nothing wrong with organizations like the NSS and SNDP collaborating, as both have significantly contributed to Kerala's educational, cultural, and social advancement.

Emphasizing the need to avoid unnecessary verbal disputes and restore the UDF to power, Chennithala remarked that Kerala requires relief from the challenges it has faced over the last decade.

He expressed confidence that voters will ultimately recognize and reject what he describes as the CPI(M)'s communal agenda.