Thiruvananthapuram: When the CPM gave them the freedom to speak openly, cultural activists loyal to the Left front did not hold back—strongly censuring both the party and the government.

They openly criticised State Secretary M. V. Govindan on stage, arguing that the RSS’s statements during the Nilambur by-election were detached from reality.

The grilling took place during a workshop held at the EMS Academy last week, which brought together writers and cultural figures aligned with the CPM.

The party had decided to invite opinions from those adhering to Leftist ideologies, aiming to strengthen the government's future. In his introductory remarks, M. V. Govindan made it clear that participants were free to offer frank assessments and criticism of both the party and the government. The writers, in turn, expressed their views candidly and without restraint.

They highlighted that while the government is implementing commendable initiatives, these efforts are not effectively reaching the public. There is a lack of consistency in the follow-up actions taken by ministerial offices. Additionally, the activists said it is not appropriate to treat the media as adversaries and called for a better system to engage with and manage media relations. The CPM, they noted, struggles to counter the BJP’s micro-level political strategies. The remarks were wide-ranging.

Another concern raised was the party's slow pace in adapting to new-generation politics. The DYFI was described as lacking its former dynamism and failing to appeal to today’s youth. Furthermore, it was pointed out that the public is unfamiliar with many state leaders. In contrast, the Congress is seen to have a visible second-tier leadership—something less evident within the CPM. The activists urged party leaders to rise to the occasion.

Notably, neither the Chief Minister nor any ministers were named during the discussion. Responding to the feedback, M. V. Govindan stated that the purpose of the workshop was to hear everyone’s views and assured that both the party and the government would move forward by implementing necessary reforms.

Participants included Sunil P. Ilayidom, Adv. C. Shukkur, actor Anoop, journalist M. V. Nikesh Kumar, and around fifty others. The CPM had instructed that no images from the event be shared on social media.