CPM general secretary race: Leaders divided as Kerala faction backs Brinda Karat

Thiruvananthapuram: Discussions on the next General Secretary of the CPM are gaining momentum within the party amid mass retirements, from the Politburo, triggered by the age limit rule. Different state units have taken varying stances on the matter, and notably, there is no unified opinion among the leaders from Kerala this time.

This division of opinion was evident in last week's Central Committee meeting, held in the run-up to the Party Congress in Madurai on April 2.

A section of Kerala leaders, along with R Arun Kumar from Andhra Pradesh, argued for a relaxation in the strict implementation of the 75-year age limit in both the Politburo and the Central Committee.

Reports suggest that this demand is intended to pave the way for Brinda Karat, who will be stepping down from the Politburo due to the age limit, to become the next general secretary. Meanwhile, Prakash Karat is reportedly keen on seeing M A Baby in the role.

Amid these discussions, Kerala leaders are said to be deliberating with Brinda Karat in mind.

Concerns have also been raised about the party’s perceived neglect of Hindi-speaking states. Leaders from Bengal, for instance, have highlighted the party’s role in the farmers’ movement and the victory of a Lok Sabha seat in Rajasthan as major achievements, arguing that the party needs leadership reflecting these successes. They have suggested considering Ashok Dhawale, the national president of the All India Kisan Sabha.

Supporters of Baby contend that Kerala remains a stronghold of the party, making him a fitting candidate. 

Meanwhile, leaders from Tripura are pushing for former chief minister Manik Sarkar to be considered for the position. Despite being over 75, Sarkar was included in the Tripura state committee at the recent state conference, underscoring his continued relevance.

His name had also been discussed in the initial rounds of deliberations.