Chandrappan gets broad support in party

KOLLAM:  The discussions over the organisational report presented by the CPI state secretary C K Chandrappan in the party conference here saw delegates throwing their weight behind the party secretary. The other prominent leaders in the party like K E Ismail and former minister K P Rajendran, Benoy Viswam and C Divakaran came under fire for different reasons. Patting Chandrappan for the outburst against CPM, the delegates from majority of districts were unanimous in saying that the arrogant approach of the CPM should no longer be endured. While some delegates noted that Chandrappan should have reacted earlier, few others were critical about his ‘event management’ comment. The CPM’s big brother attitude towards other Left parties was prevalent at all levels, right from the state leadership to the local committees, some delegates said.  The attitude of CPM during the LDF Government’s rule also came under criticism, for disregarding the opinions of the CPI regarding policies and activities in various departments. The CPM should realise that they cannot dream of a returning back to power without the support of CPI. ISMAIL UNDER FIREK E Ismail had to face the ire of some of the delegates for his statement in the media against Chandrappan’s controversial comments. A delegate from Pathanamthitta is said to have gone to the extent of calling him a traitor.The general sentiment was that stand of Ismail served only to the cause of party critics. Party leaders should have offered more support to Chandrappan when he was facing flak for his comments.Some delegates expressed their displeasure at the attitude of former ministers Benoy Viswam, K P Rajendran and  C Divakaran, towards party workers, during the LDF Government’s rule. Criticism were also levelled against the performance of Divakaran as Food and Civil Supplies and K P Rajendran as Revenue Minister.A suggestion to launch a party channel was one of the interesting suggestions made by delegates on a day, in which 33 delegates aired their views in the discussions. Earlier on the day, primary discussions were held in 15 groups.