Veteran CPI-M Leader Sudhakaran Declares He is Not Anti-Vijayan
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Synopsis
G. Sudhakaran, a senior CPI-M leader, defended himself against online attacks following his attendance at a Congress meeting. He emphasized his loyalty to Communism and challenged his detractors while reflecting on his political journey and the current dynamics within the CPI-M.
Key Takeaways
- Sudhakaran criticized social media attacks.
- He emphasized his loyalty to Communism.
- Challenged detractors to confront him directly.
- Managed departments effectively during his ministerial tenure.
- Faced challenges from party dynamics and age limitations.
Alappuzha (Kerala), March 15 (NationPress) Veteran CPI-M leader and former Kerala minister G. Sudhakaran on Saturday criticized his opponents who are targeting him on social media, particularly following his participation in a Congress-organized meeting in the state capital on March 12.
I have been a Communist and I will always be a Communist. I am not anti-Pinarayi Vijayan, but there is a systematic effort to portray me in that light,” a frustrated Sudhakaran stated when questioned by reporters about the surge in cyberattacks against him.
Numerous highly active social media accounts aggressively target anyone who voices opposition to the CPI-M.
“There is no such thing as cyber workers in the CPI-M. Those engaged in such activities are actually against the party. I challenge all those who are defaming me to come forward and confront me directly. There are perhaps around 10 or 15 individuals in Ambalapuzha (Sudhakaran’s hometown and former Assembly constituency) who oppose me. This is merely political fatherlessness,” an irate Sudhakaran expressed.
Over the years, Sudhakaran has positioned himself as a straightforward Communist. During his decade-long tenure as a minister, he oversaw the Cooperation Department under the V.S. Achuthanandan government (2006-11) and the PWD in the initial Pinarayi Vijayan government (2021-16).
On both occasions, he managed his departments effectively and received commendation from the Congress-led Opposition.
Interestingly, Sudhakaran gained attention prior to the recent four-day state party conference when reports emerged that he had not even received an invitation.
Questions arose regarding why he did not receive the customary invitation extended to veteran CPI-M leaders, leading to speculation that he might not be favored by Chief Minister Vijayan.
In 2021, Sudhakaran faced a setback when the CPI-M decided to exclude all candidates who had contested three or more times consecutively and strictly enforced retirement for those reaching 75 years of age.
Sudhakaran is set to turn 79 in November but remains a favorite among the media.
