Kottayam: Differences within the Left Democratic Front are intensifying following the alliance’s election defeat. Sharp criticism was raised against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and CPM state secretary MV Govindan during the Kerala Congress (M) steering committee meeting held in Kottayam.

Leaders at the meeting reportedly assessed that MV Govindan had failed to emerge as a worthy successor to late CPM leader Kodiyeri Balakrishnan. A section of leaders alleged that Govindan’s style of functioning, especially handling the media, caused major setbacks in the election. Criticism was also raised that his approach of trying to retain power at any cost created cracks within the party and the front.

Several leaders who attended the meeting reportedly opined that Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan bears the primary responsibility for the election defeat. Allegations were also raised that a “caucus” led by Pinarayi Vijayan and MV Govindan is currently controlling the CPM.

Kerala Congress (M) chairman Jose K Mani reportedly indicated during the meeting that widespread cross-voting by CPI members in favour of the UDF led to the collapse of several Left strongholds.

Criticism was also raised over fielding P K Shyamala in North Kerala, particularly in Taliparamba, with leaders claiming that the decision adversely affected the party’s electoral prospects.

Meanwhile, the CPM leadership has reportedly expressed strong displeasure over issues meant to be discussed in the front meeting being openly raised in the steering committee and subsequently leaking to the media. The criticism comes at a time when social media has seen increasing posts favouring Kodiyeri Balakrishnan following the election defeat.