The Kasaragod district secretariat meeting of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] reportedly raised strong criticism against the State leadership following the party’s crushing defeat in the Assembly elections, with sharp remarks directed at State secretary M.V. Govindan.

The meeting discussed several political and organisational decisions taken during the election campaign as well as the damage to the party’s public image. From candidate selection for the Taliparamba constituency to the alleged fund controversy in Payyannur, several issues came under criticism.

Leaders reportedly observed that the uncertainty over candidate selection in Taliparamba at the last moment created confusion among party workers and voters alike. The failure to adequately consider the opinions of local leaders allegedly caused dissatisfaction within the party’s grassroots structure. The meeting also assessed that the Opposition effectively used these shortcomings as a major campaign weapon.

The secretariat further discussed the impact of the alleged fund scam in Payyannur, which was said to have significantly influenced the political discourse in the district. Participants reportedly said the issue gave a negative image to the party, especially among first-time voters and youth.