The CPI has strongly criticised Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Jana Sena Party president K. Pawan Kalyan for his recent remarks about the leaders from southern India, describing them as ‘inappropriate and politically inconsistent’.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, CPI national secretary K. Ramakrishna objected to Mr. Pawan Kalyan’s comments made during a meeting in New Delhi, where he reportedly said that several southern leaders speak aggressively against the Central government in their States, but soften their stance after reaching the national capital. 

Mr. Ramakrishna said those who ultimately submit to the national leadership should first examine their own political conduct before criticising others.

Recalling the movement for Special Category Status (SCS) to Andhra Pradesh, Mr. Ramakrishna said Mr. Pawan Kalyan had previously joined hands with the opposition parties, including the CPI, and openly challenged the Central government over its failure to fulfil commitments made to Andhra Pradesh. He alleged that Mr. Pawan Kalyan had changed his stand and was now supporting the very leadership he once criticised.

Mr. Ramakrishna asserted that Left parties have consistently maintained an independent stand and have never hesitated to confront governments whenever public interests were at stake. “It was unfair to portray all political leaders as eventually yielding to the Centre,” he said.

The CPI leader alleged that the Modi government had failed to address several key demands of Andhra Pradesh and other southern States. He maintained that the CPI would continue its struggle for people’s rights and urged Mr. Pawan Kalyan to focus on securing justice for the State rather than criticising parties that raise issues concerning the State’s interests.