ALAPPUZHA: A joint memorial event marking the death anniversary of Communist leader P. Krishna Pillai was held at Chudukad with the participation of both CPI and CPM. However, former minister and senior CPM leader G. Sudhakaran was notably absent from the official program, as he was not invited.

In a symbolic gesture of protest, Sudhakaran arrived alone at the venue in an autorickshaw from his residence in Punnapra after the event concluded. He paid floral tributes, raised slogans with a clenched fist, and walked around the Punnapra-Vayalar Martyrs' Memorial before returning.

The joint commemoration was inaugurated by CPM central committee member Elamaram Kareem.

Speaking to reporters later, Sudhakaran expressed disappointment over not being included. “I have been part of the party for 62 years and am the most senior member in the district. Since V.S. Achuthanandan stepped down due to health reasons, I have been inaugurating this event. But this time, I received no invitation or information,” he said. “Even now, I’m actively working with a branch under the district committee. I don’t know why I was left out, but I felt it was important to come and reaffirm my commitment.”

No disrespect, says CPM district secretary
CPM district secretary R Nasser clarified that for joint memorial events like this, leaders from the state committees of both parties are usually invited. Sudhakaran had participated in previous events when he was part of the state committee. M.V. Govindan was originally scheduled to attend this time, but since he had another event in Delhi, Elamaram Kareem was asked to inaugurate the event. "There is no disrespect towards Sudhakaran within the party," Nasser said.