CPI-M Legislator Mukesh's Absence Sparks Debate at State Conference

Synopsis
The CPI-M state conference in Kollam highlighted the absence of Mukesh, embroiled in a sexual misconduct case. This absence led to discussions on party morality and the implications of ongoing legal proceedings.
Key Takeaways
- Mukesh is absent from the CPI-M conference due to legal issues.
- The party faces scrutiny over its moral stance.
- Former leaders commented on the ongoing investigations.
- Criticism from Congress and BJP regarding party hypocrisy.
- Numerous actors face allegations following the Justice Hema Committee report.
Kollam (Kerala), March 6 (NationPress) As the CPI-M's four-day state party conference commenced in Kollam, Kerala on Thursday, the noticeable absence of the embattled actor-turned-legislator Mukesh, who has represented his constituency since 2016, sparked conversations.
Mukesh is currently facing significant challenges after being named in a charge sheet concerning allegations of sexual assault and harassment by the special investigation team (SIT) following accusations from a former actress, which emerged after the release of the Justice Hema Committee report last year.
The CPI-M's state conference is a pivotal event for the ruling party, and during such occasions, the absence of any legislator becomes a topic of considerable interest.
Last month, the CPI-M faced scrutiny when Mukesh's name appeared in the charge sheet, leading to evasive responses regarding moral standards, a principle the party upholds dearly.
Veteran leader and Kerala State Women’s Commission Chairperson P. Sathy Devi remarked that it is up to individuals to determine their stance on moral questions.
"Let the court reach its conclusion on this case (Mukesh), and thereafter, the party will take necessary actions," stated Sathy Devi, also a former MP.
Former minister P.K. Sreemathi suggested that the ongoing investigation would reveal the truth, urging against excessive concern.
M.V.Govindan, the state CPI-M Secretary, emphasized that there is no current necessity for Mukesh to resign and that the case should proceed through the legal system.
Both Sathy Devi and Sreemathi were actively participating in the conference.
The Congress and the BJP have been vocally criticizing the CPI-M leadership regarding their statements on political morality, alleging a double standard when leaders from opposing parties encounter similar issues.
Since the release of the Justice Hema Committee report in August 2024, numerous actors, including Mukesh, Siddique, Edavela Babu, Jayasurya, Ranjith, Maniyanpillai Raju, and Nivin Pauly, have found themselves embroiled in controversies, resulting in FIRs for sexual misconduct.
Nonetheless, all involved eventually received bail.