Updated: Dec 08, 2025, 6:24 AM IST

CPI(M) state secretary MV Govindan spoke to HT on the sidelines of Kerala’s local body election campaign, addressing party strategies, BJP’s communal tactics, UDF weaknesses, and the ongoing Sabarimala gold case.

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Local Body Elections & Party Position

• CPI(M) Advantage: Govindan emphasized that CPI(M)’s strong grassroots presence gives it an edge in local body elections. The party’s cadres maintain a close connection with the public, making candidate selection easier.
• Kannur Corporation: Traditionally anti-Communist, Govindan believes the LDF has a chance to win back Kannur corporation this year, while retaining power in the other five corporations.
• Opposition Dynamics: BJP claims to be a rising force but Govindan dismissed this, citing that past wins were due to Congress vote shifts. He accused the BJP of using communal tactics and highlighted the need to counter both minority and majority communalism.

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Sabarimala Gold Case

• Action at Appropriate Time: Responding to allegations of loss of temple gold, Govindan said, “Once the investigation concludes, we will take action at the right time.”
• No Interference: CPI(M) and the government will not interfere in the SIT probe. He stressed that those responsible for any loss of temple gold will be brought to justice.
• Comparison with Other Cases: Govindan contrasted the party’s approach with alleged inaction in cases involving BJP leaders, asserting that CPI(M) would not protect anyone.

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Criticism of UDF

• Govindan criticized UDF’s campaign strategy, citing Rahul Mamkootathil’s sexual assault case as having weakened their campaign.
• He accused Congress of protecting their leaders and attempting to silence victims through social media defamation.
• On broader electoral strategy, Govindan argued that anti-BJP votes must not be split and highlighted the need for Congress to strengthen organisational machinery rather than focusing solely on leadership.

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CPI(M) Strategy & Leadership

• Campaign Leadership: CM Pinarayi Vijayan will lead the LDF campaign in Assembly polls. Govindan emphasized that post-election decisions will be taken at the right time and dismissed hypothetical debates about leadership.
• Governance Focus: He argued that age is not the determinant factor for leadership; capability and activity matter more.

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Govindan’s remarks underline CPI(M)’s confidence in local elections, a strong critique of the BJP and UDF, and a cautious but firm stance on accountability in the Sabarimala temple gold case.

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