Kottayam: The CPM Kerala has openly acknowledged that its recent defeat in the Lok Sabha elections was largely due to a diminished influence among the electorate. This admission comes as part of a broader self-assessment aimed at addressing the party’s current challenges.

A key focus of the party's internal review will be on improving its engagement with the public and integrating new demographic groups into its fold. As part of this effort, CPM leaders will attend training sessions from Saturday to Monday to better orient themselves and enhance their effectiveness in branch and local committees.

The party’s internal document highlights several critical issues, including a growing susceptibility to financial greed and inadequate engagement with women. It also notes that the party must improve its approach to local governance and public engagement.

In a pointed critique of the BJP, the CPM argues that the party’s rise has been facilitated by Congress votes and asserts that BJP’s influence among Christian voters needs to be addressed. Furthermore, the CPM is concerned about the rise in inappropriate conduct within the party, such as emotional outbursts against the government on social media, and is calling for more disciplined behaviour.

To bolster its public presence, the CPM plans to use WhatsApp groups and engage more actively in community organisations like residents' associations and parent-teacher associations (PTAs). The party aims to correct its course and strengthen its outreach efforts to regain political traction.

Key Points

CPM acknowledges defeat reasons: The CPM admits that its defeat in the Lok Sabha elections was due to a loss of influence among the people. 

Internal review: A review will focus on failures in public engagement and integrating new groups. 

Training for leaders: Branch and local committee leaders will undergo classes from Saturday to Monday to improve direction and effectiveness.

Issues identified: Key issues include increasing greed for money, poor engagement with women, and problems in party work and local governance.

Concerns about BJP: The CPM notes that BJP’s rise is partly due to Congress votes and highlights the need to counter BJP’s influence, especially among Christian voters.

Improving party conduct: The party must address problems in its internal functioning, ensure leaders evaluate higher-level members independently, and avoid emotional statements against the government on social media.

Public engagement: The party aims to improve outreach through WhatsApp groups and involvement in public forums like resident associations and PTAs.