LDF meets amid reports of CPI(M)-CPI rift over Kerala ADGP’s continuation in office
The ruling front convenes at AKG Centre in Thiruvananthapuram today at 3 PM.The summit is crucial amid reported tensions within LDF over ADGP M.R. Ajith Kumar's future.The top cop's purported secret meetings with RSS leaders in 2023 have sparked controversy.
Image credit:- thehindu
A significant meeting of the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) in Kerala is set to take place at the AKG Centre in Thiruvananthapuram today, September 11, 2024, at 3 PM. This summit carries considerable political weight as it comes amid escalating tensions within the coalition, particularly concerning the future of Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) M.R. Ajith Kumar. Allegations have surfaced regarding Kumar's secret meetings with senior leaders of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in 2023, which have sparked controversy and raised questions about the integrity of the LDF's secular stance.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, along with key figures such as CPI(M) State Secretary M.V. Govindan and CPI State Secretary Binoy Viswam, will attend the closed-door meeting. Newly appointed LDF convenor T.P. Ramakrishnan is expected to preside over the discussions. The meeting aims to address the growing rift between the CPI(M) and CPI, particularly after CPI Deputy Speaker Chittayam Gopakumar publicly criticized the Speaker's remarks downplaying the significance of Kumar's meetings with RSS leaders.
Gopakumar emphasized the need for an independent investigation into the allegations against Kumar, which include concerns about corruption and anti-people policies raised by LDF Independent legislator P.V. Anvar. The CPI has expressed fears that the controversy surrounding Kumar could undermine the LDF's appeal to minority communities, particularly Muslims, ahead of the local body elections in 2025.
The CPI has been vocal about its demand for clarity regarding Kumar's alleged interactions with the RSS, with several party leaders calling for his removal to facilitate a fair investigation. The party's concerns are compounded by the potential electoral repercussions of the ongoing controversy, which could jeopardize the LDF's standing among minority voters.
As the meeting unfolds, the Chief Minister is expected to provide explanations regarding the controversies that have emerged and outline the government's position on the matter. The discussions are anticipated to be intense, as the LDF grapples with the implications of Kumar's alleged connections with the RSS and the broader political fallout that could ensue. The outcome of this meeting may significantly impact the ruling coalition's strategy moving forward, especially in light of the upcoming elections.
