Daijiworld Media Network - Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram, May 25: Veteran CPI(M) leader and former Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan is facing one of the toughest political phases of his long public career, with criticism now emerging not only from opponents but also from within his own party ranks following the CPI(M)’s poor electoral performance in Kerala.

The electoral setback has reportedly triggered intense discussions and dissatisfaction across multiple levels of the party structure — from local area committees in Kerala to the party’s national leadership.

For nearly two decades, Vijayan remained the dominant force within the Kerala CPI(M), exercising significant influence over both the party organisation and the state government. However, the recent political reverses appear to have weakened the image of invincibility that once surrounded him.

Sources within party circles said the CPI(M) Central Committee expressed serious concerns over the Kerala unit’s assessment that there was no anti-incumbency sentiment against the government. National leaders reportedly questioned how the party could suffer such a major decline if public dissatisfaction did not exist.

The criticism has also become increasingly vocal at the grassroots level. During area committee meetings in Kerala, several party workers are said to have openly blamed Vijayan’s leadership style and public remarks for distancing ordinary voters from the party.

At a meeting of the Chalakudy Area Committee, members reportedly argued that the former Chief Minister’s approach and statements had alienated sections of the electorate. Concerns were also raised regarding candidate selection and the functioning of local leadership units.

Kerala CPI(M) state secretary M.V. Govindan has also faced criticism from party cadres, with some members reportedly expressing dissatisfaction over his handling of politically sensitive issues and communication strategy.

Despite this, many within the party reportedly believe that the primary responsibility for the electoral setback is being placed on Vijayan himself.

The developments mark a significant shift within the CPI(M), where internal criticism of top leadership has traditionally remained limited due to the party’s disciplined structure.

As the party leadership works to contain the damage and rebuild organisational confidence, political observers believe the recent backlash has exposed deep concerns within the CPI(M) and dealt a major blow to Pinarayi Vijayan’s once-unquestioned authority within the party.