Loss of votes in Nilambur: CPM blames members for losing cadre character

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The CPM state committee has expressed serious concern over the loss of votes in its strong areas during the Nilambur by-election. The main reason pointed out was that many party workers are no longer acting like disciplined and committed cadres. It was also noted that even party members and their families did not vote for the CPM candidate in some places.

The party's candidate fell behind in many panchayats where the CPM usually has strong support. Some members also criticised State Secretary M.V. Govindan, though no one made personal or harsh comments. It was generally agreed that Govindan’s earlier statement about the CPM’s past cooperation with the RSS did not affect the results much, but leaders warned that such statements could hurt the party during elections.

Govindan said that the Nilambur loss would be taken seriously and that the party would make corrections if needed. The Malappuram district committee has already submitted a first report, and a detailed report has been requested.

Leaders failed to understand Anvar's local support

• Several members said the party leadership failed to understand how much influence P.V. Anvar had in the Nilambur constituency. Compared to past elections, CPM's vote share dropped sharply. Leaders warned that without addressing this, it would be hard to win the seat back.
• M. Swaraj’s image as a candidate was seen as good, and the party made use of it during the campaign. But while some felt Swaraj got votes on his own merit, many others disagreed with this view during the meeting.