EN Suresh Babu shown the door in unusual move; Chenthamarakshan to helm affairs in CPM Palakkad

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Communist Party of India (Marxist )'s decision to replace Palakkad District Secretary E.N. Suresh Babu hints at corrective measures against the wrong trends existing in the party.

It also serves as a warning to other district leadership units. The decision was taken at a district secretariat meeting—attended by State Secretary M.V. Govindan—following intense criticism directed at both the leadership and Suresh Babu during the expanded district committee meeting.

Replacing a district secretary outside the scheduled party conference period is an unusual move for the CPM. The new secretary is V. Chenthamarakshan, a senior leader and former MLA known for his affable nature and popularity. Chenthamarakshan's name was considered even during Suresh Babu’s ascent as secretary. However, he was sidelined solely because of his purported allegiance to the VS faction.

The leadership change in Palakkad will embolden party workers in other districts to voice their criticisms more strongly. The process of finalising the expanded committees has been completed in six districts. The meeting for Kannur is scheduled for the 18th and 19th. It was the organisational issues in Kannur that drew the most criticism and led to State Secretary M.V. Govindan facing a reprimand. If K.K. Ragesh is replaced in Kannur, T.V. Rajesh will likely succeed him.

Reason behind change in Palakkad:

• Criticism was raised at the extended district committee meeting about E.N. Suresh Babu’s failure to curb factionalism and dissident activities. This factionalism was also blamed for the failure in Thrithala, Kongad, and Chittur.

• The primary reason for the defeat in Chittur was dissidence in Kozhinjampara; the District Secretary turned a deaf ear even though the dissidents were willing to hold discussions. He was also criticised for his lack of maturity and arrogant behaviour, which proved detrimental. Compared to the 2021 election, the party saw a deficit of 67,000 votes in the district.

• The activity report presented at the meeting criticised the CPM for transforming into a real estate mafia. Allegations were also raised regarding the involvement of CPM leaders in illegal land deals in Attappadi.