On Reds, Kerala Sees Red

Kerala’s CPM-led LDF govt is leaving no stone unturned to retain power for a third time. Given strong anti-incumbency sentiments statewide, evident in the latest local body elections, Left, it appears, perceives the upcoming polls in, almost, existential terms. To recall, in the local polls, Left suffered significant setbacks in its traditional strongholds, such as Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha, Kollam, Palakkad, and Kannur, together accounting for 57 of Kerala assembly’s 140 seats.

Fear that losing office may, gradually, erode organisational strength, patronage networks, political relevance, and corporate associations, has produced a palpable sense of urgency across rank and file. Alongside, there’s a growing perception, within Kerala, that Left, particularly CPM, has lost touch with social reality and reliable grassroots feedback.