Thiruvananthapuram, 15 June (H.S.) :

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] has suspended senior leader and former Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president A. Padmakumar from the party, marking a significant development in the fallout from the alleged Sabarimala gold scam controversy that became a major political issue during the recent Kerala Assembly elections.

Padmakumar, a member of the CPI(M) Pathanamthitta district committee, had earlier enjoyed strong backing from the party leadership despite the controversy surrounding the alleged irregularities. The party had largely shielded him from disciplinary action even as opposition parties repeatedly targeted the Left Democratic Front (LDF) over the issue during the election campaign.

However, the CPI(M) state leadership is understood to have concluded that the Sabarimala gold scam allegations contributed significantly to the LDF's electoral setback. Acting on directions from the state leadership, the Pathanamthitta district committee initiated disciplinary proceedings against Padmakumar.

The decision was taken at a district committee meeting attended by senior CPI(M) leader and former Finance Minister Thomas Isaac. Following the district committee meeting, the district secretariat also met to discuss the matter. Sources said the party had considered stronger action, including expulsion, but eventually decided to suspend Padmakumar. The duration of the suspension has not yet been officially announced.

There are indications that Padmakumar's lobbying within the party may have helped avert harsher disciplinary measures. At the same time, party leaders have not ruled out further action in the future.

Speaking to reporters, Thomas Isaac said the party would seek an explanation from Padmakumar as part of the disciplinary process. He also dismissed suggestions that the party was concerned about possible revelations from Padmakumar, who has reportedly been working on his autobiography.

In recent days, Padmakumar had reportedly hinted to close associates that he might disclose several sensitive details if disciplinary action was taken against him, adding a new dimension to the ongoing controversy within the party.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman