MADURAI: The Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPM] is expected to see an increase in female representation in both its Politburo and Central Committee. Considering the party's age-limit guidelines, there is a possibility that Brinda Karat and Subhashini Ali may step down from the Politburo. If that happens, in addition to filling their vacancies, at least one more woman may be inducted into the Politburo. Meanwhile, there is also a growing demand to enhance women's representation in the Central Committee.

Among the potential candidates for the Politburo are U. Vasuki from Tamil Nadu, CITU All India President K. Hemalatha, All India General Secretary of the Democratic Women's Association (AIDWA) Mariam Dhawale, and former Kerala Health Minister K.K. Shailaja.

Vasuki, who currently serves as AIDWA Vice President, was previously a bank employee before resigning to become a full-time political activist.

K. Hemalatha transitioned from her career as a doctor to organizing workers in Andhra Pradesh under the CITU. She initially worked as a doctor at a CPM-led Praja Hospital, where she became actively involved in trade union activities. Hemalatha has played a crucial role in mobilizing Anganwadi workers and female beedi workers and previously served as the Andhra Pradesh state secretary of CITU.

Mariam Dhawale: A key leader in the farmers' protest
Mariam Dhawale, who entered public activism through the Students' Federation of India (SFI), has been a significant figure in Maharashtra’s farmers' movement. She played a crucial role in organizing the protests and is married to Ashok Dhawale, a CPM Politburo member and President of the All India Kisan Sabha.

K.K. Shailaja, who gained national recognition for her leadership as Kerala’s Health Minister during the COVID-19 pandemic, is also being considered for the Politburo. She began her political career through SFI and DYFI and is currently a leader of the All India Democratic Women's Association (AIDWA).