Former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's once-formidable political network is unravelling rapidly, with his ex-security personnel going underground, his daughter Veena Vijayan facing an active Enforcement Directorate probe, and over two dozen CPI(M) workers arrested following an attack on ED officials at his rented residence. The cascade of legal and political troubles marks a sharp reversal for a leader who dominated Kerala politics for over two decades.

Security Personnel Go Underground

In the Nava Kerala Sadas Yatra assault case, approximately five accused — all serving or former police officials who formed part of Vijayan's security detail — have reportedly gone underground after non-bailable charges were invoked against them. Their phones are said to be switched off, even as courts prepare to hear anticipatory bail pleas. The Nava Kerala Sadas was a 36-day mass public outreach programme conducted by the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government between November and December 2023, during which Vijayan and his entire Cabinet travelled across all 140 Assembly constituencies in Kerala. For men who once formed part of the powerful apparatus surrounding the state's most influential political leader, the image of being hunted by investigators marks a dramatic reversal of fortunes.

Fresh Controversy at Railway Station

A separate controversy has erupted following allegations that police personnel manhandled Vijayan's driver at Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station. The complaint is now before the State Police Chief, and has drawn renewed attention to the shifting political atmosphere following the transfer of power in Kerala. Critics argue the incident reflects a broader change in the treatment of those once shielded by proximity to the former Chief Minister.

CMRL-Exalogic Case and the Veena Vijayan Shadow

The CMRL-Exalogic case involving Vijayan's daughter, Veena Vijayan, continues to cast a long shadow over his political legacy. The Enforcement Directorate's probe remains active, while ongoing court proceedings have kept the matter firmly in public focus. The case has repeatedly resurfaced as a focal point for opposition attacks on the former administration.

ED Raid Fallout and the Cadre Question

Last week's attack on ED officials during a search operation at Vijayan's rented residence has proved particularly damaging for the Left. More than two dozen CPI(M) workers have already been arrested in connection with the incident, with further action expected. The episode has generated intense debate over political violence, accountability, and the limits of cadre mobilisation.

What has amplified the controversy is the reaction on social media. Images of former minister V. Sivankutty visiting the homes of arrested party workers have gone viral. One widely circulated photograph showing the modest living conditions of an accused worker has sparked uncomfortable conversations online. Critics have used the image to highlight what they describe as a stark contrast between ordinary party cadres facing arrest and legal consequences, and political leaders and their families who reportedly remain insulated from the fallout.

A Political Landscape Transformed

These developments come in the wake of the LDF suffering what is described as its worst electoral setback under Vijayan's leadership. For the first time in years, the political conversation in Kerala is no longer centred on Vijayan's authority, but on the mounting challenges confronting his family, former aides, and loyalists. Whether the perceptions driving that conversation are fair or overstated, they are gaining traction at a moment when the Left is struggling to chart a path back to relevance. How the party manages accountability — both legal and political — in the months ahead will define its recovery.