Palakkad,06 Jan (H.S.):Senior CPI(M) leader A K Balan has indicated that Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is likely to contest the upcoming Assembly elections, signalling a possible relaxation of the Communist Party of India (Marxist)’s long-standing two-term norm.

Speaking to reporters in Palakkad, Balan said the party’s two-term guideline was not an “iron law” and could be modified when circumstances demand it. He asserted that Pinarayi Vijayan’s continuation as a candidate would benefit the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) and strengthen the coalition’s prospects in the next election.

“Leadership of the election campaign will decide the next Chief Minister,” Balan said, adding that the individual who leads the campaign would naturally emerge as the Chief Minister after the results. He claimed that by the time votes are counted, the Congress would be “completely fragmented,” predicting a major setback for the opposition.

Dismissing the opposition’s claims of a sweeping victory, Balan ridiculed the United Democratic Front’s (UDF) projection of winning more than 100 seats, describing it as a “daydream comparable to a flower seller’s fantasy.” He maintained that the second Pinarayi Vijayan government had delivered remarkable achievements despite challenges and expressed confidence that the LDF would return to power with a stronger majority.

Balan also addressed recent controversies surrounding SNDP Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesan, stating that Natesan had not insulted minority communities. “His criticism was directed at the Muslim League, not at minorities as a whole. What is wrong in that?” Balan asked.

Commenting on the ongoing friction between the CPI and Vellappally Natesan, Balan said the dispute was an internal matter between the two parties and did not concern the CPI(M). He downplayed its impact on the ruling front, suggesting it would not affect the LDF’s electoral unity.

With these remarks, Balan has reinforced speculation that the CPI(M) may prioritise continuity and leadership over rigid adherence to internal norms as the ruling front prepares for the upcoming Assembly election.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman