Expelled CPM Leader V Kunhikrishnan Unleashes Scathing Critique in Forthcoming Book
In a significant development in Kerala's political landscape, former Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader V Kunhikrishnan has launched a blistering attack on the CPM leadership through his forthcoming publication. The book, titled Nethrhrutwathe Anikal Thiruthanam, is scheduled for release in Payyannur on February 4, marking a dramatic escalation in the ongoing internal conflict within the party.
Allegations of Ideological Deviation and Financial Misconduct
Kunhikrishnan, who faced expulsion from the CPM after raising serious allegations regarding misappropriation of party funds including the martyr fund, presents a comprehensive critique in his 97-page publication. The former leader asserts that the CPM state leadership has systematically eroded the party's foundational communist principles in Kerala within a remarkably short timeframe.
"Though the party carries the name Communist Party, in practice it has for long ceased to function as one and has instead turned into an election-oriented organization," Kunhikrishnan writes in his book. He goes further to suggest that "Anyone seeking practical lessons in crony capitalism can prepare a research thesis by studying the conduct of certain party leaders."
Organizational Principles Weaponized for Protection
The expelled leader makes particularly serious allegations regarding how the party's organizational framework is being manipulated. According to Kunhikrishnan, recent experiences demonstrate that the CPM's organizational principles are now being "shamelessly used to shield those involved in plunder."
He specifically points to what he describes as "a mechanical application of the principle of democratic centralism" that enables this protective mechanism. This criticism strikes at the very heart of communist organizational theory, suggesting fundamental corruption of the party's internal democratic processes.
Detailed Financial Irregularities and Specific Criticisms
Beyond the broader ideological critique, Kunhikrishnan's book provides specific details regarding financial irregularities that emerged during audits of party funds. The publication meticulously documents these alleged financial transgressions, offering what appears to be an insider's perspective on the party's financial management.
Particularly noteworthy is Kunhikrishnan's strong criticism directed at Payyannur MLA T I Madhusoodanan. The former leader claims that despite repeatedly flagging the irregularities within party financial systems, the party district secretary adopted what he characterizes as "a soft approach toward those responsible" for the alleged misconduct.
Legal Protection Sought for Book Release
In a related development, Kunhikrishnan revealed to reporters on Friday that he has approached the Kerala High Court seeking police protection to ensure the smooth release of his book on February 4. While emphasizing that he is "not personally concerned about any attack against him," the former leader expressed legitimate apprehensions about potential disruptions.
"There have already been attacks on Congress and BJP activists who staged protests over the issue," Kunhikrishnan explained. "In that context, there were apprehensions that the book release could be disrupted, which is why I moved the high court."
This legal move underscores the tense political atmosphere surrounding the publication and suggests that Kunhikrishnan anticipates significant resistance to his revelations from within his former party.
Broader Implications for Kerala Politics
The publication of this book represents more than just personal grievances from an expelled member. It potentially signals deeper fractures within the CPM's Kerala unit and raises fundamental questions about:
- The party's adherence to its ideological foundations
- Transparency in financial management, particularly regarding sensitive funds
- The health of internal democratic processes within communist organizations
- The relationship between party leadership and dissenting voices
As February 4 approaches, political observers across Kerala and beyond will be watching closely to see how the CPM leadership responds to these serious allegations and whether Kunhikrishnan's book triggers broader discussions about political accountability and organizational integrity within one of India's most influential communist parties.
