Alappuzha (Kerala): The CPM has decided to halt all conciliatory talks with veteran leader and former minister G Sudhakaran, who has refused to renew his party membership. Speaking to Mathrubhumi, CPM District Secretary R Nazar confirmed that the party will no longer pursue discussions with him. This follows a final attempt four days ago when Central Committee member C S Sujatha and District Secretariat member G Harishankar visited Sudhakaran’s residence, acting on instructions from the state and district leadership.

The leadership had requested that he renew his membership, attend government functions and fulfill assigned election-related duties. However, Sudhakaran remained unmoved. The CPM's shift to a "no more talks" stance is reportedly driven by information that Sudhakaran is preparing to contest as an independent candidate in the Ambalapuzha constituency, with potential backing from the Congress party.

The roots of the disconnect

Six days ago, Sudhakaran publicly announced his decision via Facebook, citing years of neglect and disrespect

Demotion and neglect: After being excluded from the State Committee due to age limits, he was assigned to a local branch under the District Committee. He alleged that despite five years of active branch-level work, the District Secretary never once checked on him.

Exclusion from events: He claimed he was sidelined from public functions and was notably not invited to the 50th-anniversary commemoration of the Emergency, despite his personal history of imprisonment during that era.

Insults from leadership: Sudhakaran specifically mentioned that State Secretary M V Govindan had spoken of him in a derogatory manner. He stated he chose not to renew his membership to avoid "burdening" the current leaders.

Intelligence and monitoring

The CPM leadership is reportedly aware that Congress leaders have already expressed their willingness to support Sudhakaran if he contests independently. Local party units are closely monitoring those visiting his residence, and it is understood that Special Branch officers are also keeping a watch on the developing situation.