CPM's traditional votes went to BJP; leaders term it dangerous if not solved

KOZHIKODE: CPM leaders have expressed concern over the vote leakage in several Left strongholds in Kozhikode, warning that failure to address the issue could lead to serious setbacks in the future. They said the shift in votes was unexpected and called for immediate corrective measures during a district secretariat meeting held at the party’s district committee office yesterday.

‘The BJP made significant gains even in constituencies such as Kozhikode North, where the CPM traditionally enjoyed strong support. This is dangerous and a solution should be found. Otherwise, there will be setbacks in the future. There is a lapse in fielding the candidate in Elathur. The constituency would not have been lost otherwise.

LDF activists did not actively campaign in many places. Even when there was a strong UDF wave in the state, the LDF held firm in Kozhikode. It was certain that more constituencies would be lost this time. However, such a big setback was not expected. The fact that the UDF candidate came forward even in Perambra, a Left stronghold, should be examined. There was a problem in the style of work in some constituencies. It needs to be corrected,' were the demands raised by the leaders in the meeting.

LDF convener T P Ramakrishnan, state secretariat members P A Muhammed Riyas and P K Biju attended the meeting. They will also attend the meetings being held today and tomorrow.