P V Anwar backtracks on allegations against CM, sparking party outrage

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: P V Anwar, who had previously made strong accusations of misconduct against the Home Department and the Chief Minister's office, backed down yesterday, agreeing to a settlement with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. What was once expected to be a major political bombshell fizzled out, leaving Anwar’s claims as empty threats.

However, the Chief Minister's late-night reversal, after having publicly vowed decisive action, has triggered deep discontent within the CPM and the LDF. Despite the earlier tough stance, Pinarayi Vijayan shielded the accused, causing significant unrest within his party. LDF Convenor T P Ramakrishnan announced that the front will discuss the allegations.

Anwar’s allegations were serious: he accused ADGP Ajith Kumar of involvement in gold smuggling and claimed that the phones of ministers had been compromised. He also implicated Political Secretary P. Sasi, alleging that Sasi was covering up these misdeeds and playing a central role in protecting the accused.

The situation took a confusing turn after the Chief Minister, who had earlier praised Ajith Kumar at the Kottayam Police Association meeting on Monday, suddenly reversed course late at night. Despite announcing an inquiry, Ajith Kumar was not removed from his role overseeing law and order. Similarly, no action was taken against P. Sasi, further fueling suspicions that the investigation was merely a show.

The Chief Minister's return to Thiruvananthapuram saw heightened activity, but the CPM leadership was largely kept in the dark. In a three-hour discussion, DGP Darvesh Sahib argued for Ajith Kumar's removal, but the Chief Minister remained unmoved. Eventually, a superficial investigation order was issued late Monday night, omitting any mention of Ajith Kumar or P. Sasi. Notably, the investigation team members are all subordinate to Ajith Kumar, raising concerns about the inquiry’s legitimacy.

This chain of events has led to deep dissatisfaction and anger within the party. Even the state secretary, M.V. Govindan, was reportedly not informed of the developments, and his displeasure was apparent yesterday.

Many party leaders and members are particularly frustrated that P. Sasi, who is perceived as wielding significant, unchecked power within the government, was not removed. Anwar's highly anticipated meeting with the Chief Minister, which lasted half an hour, only heightened the drama. After emerging from the discussion, Anwar appeared subdued, having abandoned even his demand for Ajith Kumar's removal.

There is now widespread suspicion that some CPM stalwarts were behind Anwar’s initial bold stance. However, when it became clear that no action would be taken, Anwar quickly changed his tune, aligning himself with the Chief Minister. This sudden shift has surprised even those who initially backed Anwar against Sasi.

Many state committee members and district secretaries have voiced complaints that Sasi's influence has grown to the point where even minor police transfers cannot occur without his interference. The strategy to use Anwar to bring down Sasi has ultimately failed, leaving many within the party disillusioned and frustrated.