A K Balan’s statement triggers discontent in CPI

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: CPI leaders are unhappy with a remark made by CPM leader AK Balan against Jamaat-e-Islami, ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. The CPM had earlier assessed that one of the main reasons for its setback in the local body elections was a decline in minority votes, and Balan’s statement is seen as likely to worsen the situation.

Balan had said that if the UDF comes to power, Jamaat-e-Islami would handle the Home Affairs portfolio, and that certain communal incidents like the Marad riot could repeat. He also claimed that the Muslim League shows greater communal tendencies than Jamaat-e-Islami. CPM had previously alleged that the UDF contested the local elections in alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami and SDPI. Although Balan aimed his comments at the UDF, mentioning the Marad riot gave the statement a communal tone.

CPM state secretary M.V. Govindan and CPI state secretary Binoy Viswam had earlier said that the consolidation of minority votes in several wards during the local body elections was a major setback for the Left Front. They had also stated that efforts would be intensified to bring minority communities back on board ahead of the Assembly elections. It is in this context that A.K. Balan’s remarks have become controversial. The issue will be discussed at the CPI secretariat and executive meetings scheduled for today and tomorrow. The Congress has criticised Balan’s statement, saying that it is an allegation not even raised by the BJP and that the CPM is adopting a Sangh Parivar agenda. The opposition is trying to strengthen the campaign that the Left Front is distancing itself from minority communities.