Alappuzha, 13 March (H.S.): Tensions have escalated within the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM) in Alappuzha after senior leader G. Sudhakaran announced his decision to contest the upcoming Assembly election as an independent candidate. The development has triggered sharp reactions from party leaders and supporters, with protests intensifying in front of Sudhakaran’s residence.

Banners and posters condemning the veteran leader appeared outside his house, named Navaneetham, in Punnapra. One banner carried the slogan, “History will remember traitors as class betrayers,” and was put up in the name of ‘Bhagavathikkal Sakhakkal.’ Several posters were also pasted on the compound wall of the house, carrying slogans such as “Long live the martyrs,” “No pardon for class betrayers,” and “No votes for traitors.”

The protest posters are widely seen as a sign that the CPM is preparing to politically challenge Sudhakaran following his announcement of an independent candidature. The situation has become tense enough for the police to step in. Personnel from the Punnapra police station have been deployed outside Sudhakaran’s residence to maintain law and order, and security remained in place through Thursday night.

Local CPM leaders have reacted strongly to Sudhakaran’s move. Alappuzha district secretary R. Naser criticised the decision, stating that Sudhakaran’s stance would ultimately benefit the opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Sudhakaran, however, defended his decision, saying he chose to contest independently from the Ambalappuzha constituency due to the humiliation and experiences he faced within the party. He clarified that he had no intention of making statements against the CPM or targeting any individual leader personally.

The veteran leader also said that the difficulties and indignities he experienced in recent times prompted him to decide against renewing his party membership. Despite stepping away from the party structure, Sudhakaran maintained that he would refrain from any form of personal attacks during the election campaign.

The unfolding developments have exposed growing tensions within the CPM’s ranks in Alappuzha, setting the stage for a potentially intense political contest in the Ambalappuzha constituency.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman