CPM trying to persuade G Sudhakaran somehow, C S Sujatha calls on him, makes him chief guest for bridge inauguration

ALAPPUZHA: The CPM is making intense efforts to persuade former minister G Sudhakaran, who has resigned his party membership. As part of it, party central committee member C S Sujatha visited Sudhakaran at his home Friday morning. District secretariat member Harishankar was also with Sujatha. The meeting lasted for about an hour. This is the first time a senior CPM leader has visited Sudhakaran after he publicly announced of leaving the party.

As a solution to Sudhakaran's complaint of not inviting him to any party programmes, he was made chief guest at the inaugural function of the Perumbalam bridge. His photo was also included in the poster. The function is inaugurated by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Reports say Public Works Minister Muhammed Riyas called Sudhakaran directly on phone. However, sources close to him hint that Sudhakaran will not attend the function. It is also heard that Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who will be in Alappuzha to participate in various programs tomorrow, will meet Sudhakaran in person.

Senior party leaders spoke to Sudhakaran on the phone as part of the persuasion. However, it is known that he did not say anything in return except listening to them. Party leaders rushed to initiate conciliatory efforts, considering the possible consequences if the senior leader who has a strong public support in the district, stands against the party. There are also reports that Sudhakaran may seek the mandate as an independent in the Ambalappuzha constituency. I have not thought about the support of UDF or BJP. I will contest as an individual. Anyone can support me. I will not be anti-party, he said.

The CPM knows very well that if Sudhakaran stays away, it will affect the Left Front in all the constituencies of Alappuzha. They also know that keeping Sudhakaran away is suicidal in a situation where a third term is firmly on the path.