THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The CPI state leadership is handling the suspension of former National Council member K.E. Ismail with caution to avoid any potential backlash. Although Ismail currently holds only an invitee position in the Palakkad district council, he still wields significant influence within the CPI.

Ismail responded to the disciplinary action with political maturity. While he made it clear that he accepts the party's decision, he also firmly stated that he stands by his stance on the controversial issue. In the recent state executive meeting, there were demands to expel Ismail from the party, but the leadership softened the action to a suspension due to concerns over possible repercussions.

Excluded from leadership due to the age limit, Ismail has always maintained a strong stance against the official faction of the party. Even during the leadership of the late former state secretary C.K. Chandrappan and later under Kanam Rajendran, Ismail remained firmly on one side. A few individuals who, for various reasons, have distanced themselves from or are dissatisfied with the CPI state leadership may also extend their support to Ismail. This is the reason behind the cautious approach taken by the state leadership.