Kochi: Senior advocate and political commentator Adv. A Jayashankar has reportedly decided to leave the Communist Party of India (CPI) after not renewing his party membership within the stipulated period.

Jayashankar, who was a member of the CPI’s Kerala High Court branch committee, did not complete the membership renewal process before the deadline ended. Reports said his decision not to renew the membership has effectively marked his exit from the party.

The CPI Ernakulam district leadership said it was not aware of the reason behind Jayashankar’s decision not to renew his membership. Party sources indicated that there was no pressure from the leadership this time for him to continue his membership.

Criticism of government policies had often drawn attention

Jayashankar’s strong criticism of various policies of the Left (front led by CPM, CPI and other left parties) government in Kerala during public discussions had frequently created discomfort for the party leadership.

At an earlier stage, when the party had refused to renew his membership, Jayashankar had approached the Control Commission, following which he regained his party membership.

However, reports now suggest that this time he chose to stay away from the party on his own.

Jayashankar yet to explain decision

Jayashankar has not so far responded to the reasons behind his decision not to renew his CPI membership.

Party sources said the actual reasons for stepping away from the party should be explained by Jayashankar himself.