Veteran Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] leader G. Sudhakaran recently made headlines for remarks widely interpreted as a direct criticism of the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) government. His comments centered on the contentious Sabarimala gold ‘theft’ scandal, igniting a fresh political debate in the state.
During his address at the southern region Vichara Sadas, an intellectual forum organized by Samskara Sahithi, the cultural arm of the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), Mr. Sudhakaran didn’t mince words. Speaking in Alappuzha on Monday, he highlighted Kerala’s frequent boasts of being “number one” in various sectors, then provocatively asked if this claim also extended to “gold theft.”
“Everyone is constantly competing to declare themselves ‘number one’,” Sudhakaran observed, adding a pointed question for reflection: “We should seriously ask ourselves if this constant need for self-affirmation is truly necessary. And are we, by any chance, also ‘number one’ in gold theft?” This rhetorical question clearly alluded to the ongoing controversy.
Sudhakaran acknowledged Kerala’s achievements in numerous fields but quickly emphasized that the state also falls short in many others. He elaborated, “To claim we are ‘number one’ universally implies a stagnation, a belief that there’s no further scope for improvement. Let’s remember that other states too possess their unique strengths. Ultimately, we are all inheritors of the grand tapestry that is India.”
Reflecting on his extensive political career, the veteran CPI(M) leader noted his 63 years of active service to the party. He clarified that despite stepping down from all official positions five years ago, he has maintained his party membership and has never defected. Sudhakaran revealed that leaders from the BJP had even approached him with offers of prestigious roles, including that of Governor. “My unwavering faith remains in Marxism and Leninism,” he asserted, adding, “Even though I’m speaking on a Congress platform today, that doesn’t stop me from voicing my convictions. I was invited precisely because I am a communist, and I have never once compromised my ideology.”
He further mentioned the social media chatter questioning why he hadn’t joined the BJP. Sudhakaran interpreted this as a sign that “many wrongdoers have infiltrated leftist politics in Alappuzha.” He concluded with a strong message: “True political activists should be assets to their party, drawing people towards its ideals, not alienating them.”