Kochi: The CPM faced criticism for accepting Rs 30 lakh election fund from Kitex company, a move that raised eyebrows during many instances over Twenty20, a political party associated with Kitex.

The ruling party had received the amount by cheque for the Thrikkakkara by election, as per the election fund details released by the election commission.   

Interestingly, the CPM had received the money from the Kitex Company when it announced the shifting of its plant from Kochi to Telangana following a tiff with the party.

“From one side, they are taking money from us and on the other side, they are striking us with their feet,” said Kitex MD Sabu M Jacob. “This is the unseen face of politicians. They will oppose us publicly and then secretly demand money from us,” he said, adding that dignified people would help those who approach them for the same. “They should have shown propriety by not asking for money,” he added.

When asked if it was why they did not field any Twenty20 candidate in the Thrikkakkara bypoll, Sabu said there was no understanding with CPM. 

It was only because there was no Twenty20 candidate in the by-election, Congress candidate Uma Thomas could win with flying colours, he claimed.