G Sudhakaran quits CPM, will contest as independent candidiate in Ambalappuzha

ALAPPUZHA: Former minister and popular communist leader G Sudhakaran has announced that he will contest the upcoming Assembly election from Ambalappuzha as an independent candidate. His decision to leave the CPM after a long association is seen as a setback and a major challenge for the party. Although Sudhakaran stated that he has not sought support from anyone, reports suggest that the UDF may provide him with external support.

The CPM has fielded sitting MLA H Salam again in the constituency. Political observers believe that Sudhakaran, who has strong personal connections across Alappuzha district and deep knowledge of local politics, could pose a serious challenge to the party. CPM has already begun discussions on how to handle the situation. Meanwhile, posters reading “No forgiveness, no votes for traitors” have appeared near Sudhakaran’s house.

Sudhakaran said he ended his 63-year association with the CPM because the party environment no longer allowed him to function even at the branch level. Speaking at a press conference at his residence in Punnapra Paravur, he said he is confident of winning the election in Ambalappuzha.

He also disagreed with the party’s stance that leaders who have served as ministers twice should not contest again. However, he clarified that the issue was not about being denied a ticket. According to Sudhakaran, he was unfairly blamed for the reduced victory margin of H Salam in the last election. He alleged that Elamaram Kareem had prepared a false report regarding the matter.

Sudhakaran said the number of times someone served as a minister is not important; what matters is the work done for the people. He also stated that he has always remained committed to communist ideology.

Happy if Pinarayi Vijayan becomes CM again
Sudhakaran alleged that political criminals were used as tools to carry out character assassination against him. He said one person even changed his name and mocked him by calling him “Sudhakuran.” According to him, a district committee member later helped that person secure a job at the Ambalappuzha Temple. Sudhakaran also said the situation has reached a point where party cadres even speak disrespectfully about the families of leaders. He added that if someone says something inappropriate, he would respond firmly but in respectful language. He said communists should follow the simplicity and values of Mahatma Gandhi.

Sudhakaran also said the situation has reached a point where party cadres even speak disrespectfully about the families of leaders. He added that if someone says something inappropriate, he would respond firmly but in respectful language. He said communists should follow the simplicity and values of Mahatma Gandhi. At the same time, Sudhakaran said he would be happy if Pinarayi Vijayan became Chief Minister again.

Wounded comrade has made up his mind

1. G. Sudhakaran had been indicating for days that he would take a strong stand. He refused to renew his party membership and openly expressed his pain over what he described as humiliation by the state and district secretaries.
2. Party leaders had reportedly tried several times to persuade Sudhakaran to reconsider his decision. Senior leaders, including M. A. Baby, had contacted him.
3. Even on Wednesday night, party leaders made a final attempt after he announced the press conference. However, Sudhakaran, who said he felt deeply hurt by the party’s treatment, had already made up his mind.

The party has never shown any neglect towards Sudhakaran. If Sudhakaran thinks like a true communist, he would withdraw his candidacy.
-R Nasser
CPM district secretary