Internal CPI(M) Rifts Blamed for Losses in Thrithala and Kongad

Factional fighting inside the CPI(M) was identified as a chief cause of the party’s defeats in the Thrithala and Kongad seats during the recent Palakkad district elections. The findings were laid out in an organisational report presented at the district conference on Saturday. District secretary E.N. Suresh Babu read the report after state secretary M.V. Govindan opened the meeting at the district committee office. The document said that infighting, together with a united minority vote, knocked out incumbent M.B. Rajesh in Thrithala. In Kongad the party surrendered a large chunk of its traditional support, and the loss was also noted in panchayats where the CPI(M) previously enjoyed a solid base. The report further accused a few party leaders of taking part in unlawful land transactions in Attappady and urged a public disclosure of their assets, warning of growing ties with real‑estate interests. Govindan echoed the assessment, saying leadership disputes had hurt the party’s performance in Thrithala, Kongad and other constituencies, and he also criticised the functioning of the district secretariat. The discussion of the report will continue on Sunday, followed by responses from state and district officials. A public rally is scheduled for Sunday afternoon in the town, with Govindan set to inaugurate it. ## Context Internal divisions often split a party’s vote bank and can open space for rivals, while accusations of corruption can further erode public trust in a political organization.