Rectification of mistakes: CPM begins zonal meetings; report criticizing state leadership presented

KANNUR: CPM has begun zonal meetings where it will present reports of central and state committees that, ahead of the rectification, will critically evaluate the loss in elections. The first meeting was held in Kannur including Kasaragod and Kannur districts. The meeting will be held tomorrow in Kozhikode and Ernakulam regions and the next day in Kollam.

The central committee report, presented by politburo member Prakash Karat, details the loss of votes from traditionally supportive sections, the change in style of leaders and the lapses of the government. The government and the state leadership were criticized in sharp language. The Central Committee had earlier assessed that the defeat in Kerala should be studied in depth. Karat also presented introspective assessments of the party's performance in contested seats in the country.

The state committee report, presented by state secretary MV Govindan, admitted that the foundation votes had been washed away. Actions were also suggested to curb the growth of BJP. Leaders up to local secretaries are participating in regional meetings.

Zonal meetings are held in addition to regular reporting on district components after understanding the depth of the backlash. Guidelines will be drawn up to make corrections. The coming party conferences will be based on this guideline. There will be a guideline not to renew the membership of the accused.

Area and local committee meetings will discuss Central and State Committee reports presented at regional meetings. Following this, the error correction steps will be taken. After the four regional meetings, the state committee will again discuss and give a final shape to the rectification measures.

Criticism of Central Committee

The election performance has been disappointing. There has been a big failure in setting priorities in the government's actions. The shortfall in pension distribution created public sentiment against the party and the government. Efforts should be made immediately to address the shortcomings of the party and further strengthen it.

Comrades should not be the centre of power

MV Govindan said that comrades should not make themselves the centre of power. He also self-criticized that the reason for the defeat was that the leaders were alienated from the people. "Every comrade should correct the mistake. The people should know that the mistake is being corrected. We should see the condition of the party in Bengal and Tripura. If the votes go to BJP, they will not come back. We need to work hard to bring back the votes that went to BJP."