In Kerala, CPM cadres are frequently involved in clashes with workers and leaders of other parties and organizations, particularly those affiliated with the RSS and Sangh-inspired groups. The pattern is evident in conflicts such as CPM versus RSS/BJP, CPM versus Congress, CPM versus Indian Union Muslim League, and CPM versus RSP, among others. Surprisingly, recent reports from Kasaragod reveal a new dynamic: internal strife within the CPM itself. Party members resorted to violence against their own leaders, as witnessed in instances where explosives were hurled. While local secretaries and other leaders narrowly escaped harm, the incidents underscore the severity of the internal divisions within the party.
Leaders had arrived at Ambalathara in Kanjangad, Kasaragod district, for a house contact program organized by the party. Reports indicate that the attack was carried out by Laloor native Ratheesh, who is accused in a murder case. The local secretary and the leaders managed to flee, avoiding injuries. The incident occurred around 9 pm on May 20. A woman named Ameena, who sustained injuries, is currently receiving treatment at the hospital. Reports suggest that her injuries are not life-threatening. She recounted that something fell near her on the rock, and then something struck her eyes. Ameena further mentioned that the attack occurred in the presence of children.
Reports suggest that Ratheesh threw the explosives at Local Secretaries Anoop, Baburaj, and DYFI Zonal Secretary Arun Balakrishnan. The incident occurred when the CPM leaders reached Shameer’s house for house contact.
The police have registered a case against Ratheesh and Sameer under Section 308 of the IPC (attempt to commit culpable homicide). This was based on the complaint filed by Anoop.
Police reportedly stated that CPM has been suffering intra-party rivalry in the Ambalathara area for some time, and the latest attack is part of it.
However, CPM leadership, as usual, maintains that Ratheesh has had no business with CPM since 2018 and had some links with the drug mafia. They added that Ratheesh came to attack the CPM leaders in connection with some old issues.
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Political observers opine that when CPM workers oppose the party or even criticize it, the leadership often takes similar stances, stating that these individuals have not been with the party for long or have been influenced by bad company, etc. This is perceived as a camouflage to conceal internal conflicts within the party. For instance, when T.P. Chandrasekharan, a rebel CPM leader, was brutally killed on May 4, 2012, the CPM levied various allegations against him, including charges of corruption. Ultimately, the CPM workers were put behind the bars on the basis of judicial verdict.
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