Pathanamthitta, Kerala: The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has suspended A. Padmakumar, former president of the Travancore Devaswom Board and a member of the party's Pathanamthitta district committee, in connection with developments surrounding the Sabarimala gold theft case.

The party has not announced how long the suspension will remain in force. Further action is expected after the Special Investigation Team (SIT) files its charge sheet in the case.

The move signals a change in the CPM's approach after months of criticism over its reluctance to take action against Padmakumar, who is accused in the the Sabarimala gold theft case. The issue had become a source of political embarrassment for the party, according to party sources.

Election setback linked to controversy

Party sources said the CPM state leadership assessed that the Sabarimala gold theft case had been one of the factors that contributed to the Left Democratic Front's defeat in the recent Assembly election.\

Following that assessment, the state leadership directed the Pathanamthitta district committee to initiate disciplinary proceedings against Padmakumar.

The decision to suspend him was taken at a district committee meeting attended by senior CPM leader Thomas Isaac. A meeting of the district secretariat was also held after the district committee discussions.

Although stronger disciplinary measures, including expulsion, were reportedly considered, the party eventually decided on suspension.

Focus shifts to Padmakumar's response

The suspension comes amid reports that Padmakumar had recently told close associates he might be forced to disclose certain matters if disciplinary action was taken against him.

With the CPM opting for suspension rather than more severe action at this stage, attention has now shifted to whether Padmakumar will make any public statements or disclosures in the coming days.

The party is expected to review its position further once the SIT submits its charge sheet in the Sabarimala gold theft case.