Synopsis
The rift within Kerala's ruling CPI-M deepens as K.T. Jaleel criticizes Speaker A.N. Shamseer, reigniting tensions and highlighting internal party conflicts.Key Takeaways
- Jaleel’s criticism highlights a growing divide within CPI-M.
- The Speaker's role and authority questioned in party dynamics.
- Social media used as a platform for political jabs.
- Jaleel's electoral victories contrast with Shamseer's representation.
- Future implications for CPI-M leadership and discipline.
Thiruvananthapuram, March 27 (NationPress) The escalating divide within the ruling CPI-M in Kerala has once again come to light as four-time legislator and former State Minister K.T. Jaleel directed a sharp critique towards Speaker A.N. Shamseer, reigniting tensions within the party.
The strained rapport between Jaleel and Shamseer is well-known in political circles. While Jaleel served as the State Higher Education Minister during the first Pinarayi Vijayan government (2016-21), Shamseer, a two-time legislator, gained prominence when he was appointed Speaker in 2022 after his predecessor, M.B. Rajesh, was transitioned to the role of State Excise Minister.
Previously, when Rajesh held the Speaker position and Shamseer was a legislator, verbal clashes occurred between the two. When the roles reversed, Shamseer did not hesitate to reciprocate, making critical comments about Rajesh.
The most recent flashpoint between Jaleel and Shamseer transpired during the recently concluded Assembly session when Jaleel persisted with his speech despite the Speaker’s multiple requests to conclude.
Clearly irritated, Shamseer responded, “Jaleel does not possess any special privilege,” and his annoyance was palpable.
This sharp exchange between two legislators from the treasury benches raised eyebrows, as it is unusual for a Speaker to openly reprimand a fellow party member in such a manner.
Just when it appeared that the situation had calmed, Jaleel reignited the controversy on Thursday with a pointed social media post. Reflecting on the event, he stated, “During my speech on the Private Universities Bill in the Assembly, I acknowledge that I may have spoken at length. If ‘someone’ perceives that as a criminal offense, I can only extend my sympathies to them.”
He further took a veiled jab at Shamseer, stating, “I have secured victory four times from a stronghold of the IUML (the second-largest ally of the Congress-led Opposition) in Malappuram district, which naturally energizes me. However, that may not be easily grasped by someone who sells dates in Mecca.”
Jaleel’s comment was broadly interpreted as a dig at Shamseer.
While Jaleel established a reputation by defeating IUML heavyweight P.K. Kunhalikutty in a significant electoral upset in Kerala’s history, Shamseer represents Tellicherry, a CPI-M bastion in the Kannur district.
This open critique by Jaleel is likely to exacerbate the rift between him and the CPI-M leadership. Given the party's reputation for enforcing strict discipline among its ranks, it remains uncertain how the CPI-M top brass will react to this.
