Thiruvananthapuram, March 18 – The frequent use of the term “class traitor” by the CPI(M) in Kerala is now attracting sharp scrutiny, as a series of recent defections expose what critics describe as a deeply inconsistent political stance.
In the past few weeks, the phrase has been repeatedly invoked by party leaders and members after prominent figures such as V. Kunjikrishnan and T.K. Govindan, both known for their unwavering loyalty spanning over five decades, left the CPI(M), alleging sustained injustice and neglect within the party.
Their departure was quickly met with the familiar ideological branding, portraying them as having betrayed the very class politics they once upheld. This also saw angry party members taking to the streets, shouting slogans against their former leaders, who were seen and addressed with great respect.
The same situation occurred when former two-time veteran State Minister G. Sudhakaran announced his decision to contest as an Independent candidate from his home constituency, Ambalappuzha, and the Congress party is set to support him and the two other veterans.
Subsequently, three-time legislators S. Rajendran and Aiysha Potti switched sides, joining the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Indian National Congress, respectively.
Both leaders have since been fielded as candidates by their new parties, intensifying the political heat in an election season already marked by changes and adjustments.
However, it is this selective use of ideological rhetoric that is now being questioned.
Critics point out that while the CPI(M) is quick to brand its outgoing members as “class traitors,” it adopts a markedly different tone when inducting leaders from rival camps, particularly from the Congress-led UDF.
In such instances, the narrative shifts from condemnation to acceptance, often portraying these entrants as individuals who have embraced progressive politics.
The party’s recent track record reinforces this perception.
Leaders such as K.P. Anil Kumar and Dr. Sarin, both former Congress figures, were welcomed into the CPI(M), with the latter even being swiftly fielded as a candidate soon after his defection in 2024.
Furthermore, reports on Wednesday suggested that Abdurehman Randathani, a senior leader from the Indian Union Muslim League, is being considered for a CPI(M) ticket in Malappuram.
As Kerala heads into a crucial electoral battle, the CPI(M)’s contrasting responses – condemnation of defection on one side and accommodation on the other – have sharpened the debate over whether ideological consistency is yielding to electoral expediency.