Thiruvananthapuram: The Communist Party of India (CPI) sharply criticised its LDF coalition partner Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPM-Marxist] in Kerala over allegations of gold smuggling and illicit activities faced by the CPM in Kannur.

CPI State Secretary Binoy Viswam condemned the reports coming from Kannur, calling them an insult to the red flag. He emphasised that those involved in criminal activities undermine the principles of the left movement, branding them as traitors. Viswam further stated in a press release that such individuals have also contributed to the setbacks faced by the left.

The reports from Kannur are deeply distressing to the comrades of the communist movement, especially in the traditional strongholds of Kayyur, Karivellur, and Thillankeri. Viswam expressed profound disappointment that such stories of gold smuggling and underworld activities have emerged from this region, which has long been associated with the Red Flag.

In his statement, Viswam highlighted the irony that individuals who portray themselves as champions of the left on social media are allegedly involved in criminal activities. He emphasised that these revelations tarnish the reputation of the left movement and are difficult for loyal supporters to accept.

"The role of such people in the setbacks of the movement is not small. It is these groups that make people think that the left has forgotten its goals. By deliberately keeping a distance from them, the left can regain the trust of the people and move forward. Those who have become slaves to such bad money and follow the underworld are traitors," he stated. 

After leaving the CPM, former Kannur district committee member Manu Thomas alleged that some CPM leaders in Kannur were connected with quotation groups and were involved in illicit activities. The incident came to public attention after P. Jayarajan responded to the issue and dropped a Facebook post, sparking debates within the party.