Thiruvananthapuram, 30 Sept (H.S.): The CPI(M) will begin expanded district committee meetings in Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam and Thrissur on Wednesday as part of its corrective exercise following the electoral defeat, with leadership changes and organisational restructuring expected to dominate discussions.

In Thiruvananthapuram, a section of members is likely to demand the replacement of district secretary V. Joy, arguing that his responsibilities as an MLA prevent him from devoting sufficient attention to party affairs.

The meeting at Kovalam will be attended by Opposition Leader Pinarayi Vijayan. Members seeking Joy’s removal are expected to cite the expanded state committee’s recommendation against allowing leaders to hold two positions simultaneously. Similar criticism has already emerged from lower party units.

K.S. Sunilkumar and D.K. Murali could be considered for the post if Joy steps down. However, speculation persists that Joy, who enjoys the state leadership’s support, may continue. Even without a change of secretary, the district secretariat could undergo substantial restructuring.

The Ernakulam expanded district committee will meet on Wednesday and Thursday at Tripunithura. Politburo member A. Vijayaraghavan will inaugurate the proceedings.

Criticism resembling that voiced at the state committee meeting is expected, particularly from the Kothamangalam, Thrikkakara and Perumbavoor area committees. Issues surrounding candidate selection may also feature prominently. New members are expected to enter both the district committee and its secretariat.

In Thrissur, the two-day meeting will take place at Nalinam Auditorium, with state secretary M.V. Govindan inaugurating it. Leaders including K. Radhakrishnan, T.P. Ramakrishnan, K.N. Balagopal, P.A. Mohamed Riyas and M.B. Rajesh will participate.

The Karuvannur financial fraud case is among the issues likely to come under scrutiny. Changes to the district committee are also possible as the party reviews shortcomings and considers measures to rebuild its organisation after the defeat.

The three meetings will provide district units an opportunity to raise concerns over leadership, electoral decisions and organisational functioning.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman