Vijayan should be accommodative, says D Raja amid Dy LoP post row

Thiruvananthapuram - The dispute between the CPI(M) and the CPI over the deputy leader of opposition (LoP) position in the Kerala Assembly escalated on Monday. CPI national general secretary D Raja suggested that LoP Pinarayi Vijayan should be more accommodating towards allies within the LDF. This came after Vijayan declared that a CPI(M) leader would be nominated as the deputy LoP, which disappointed the CPI that had been pushing for the same position.

Raja stated during a press conference in Delhi that a deputy LoP post is a legitimate demand and not unreasonable. He emphasized that Pinarayi Vijayan, as a senior Left movement leader in India, should demonstrate more flexibility. The CPI believes this would showcase unity and commitment among the Left parties across the nation.

Raja mentioned that the dispute can be settled through bilateral discussions and that the CPI is actively engaged in negotiations. Meanwhile, CPI state secretary Binoy Viswam criticized Vijayan's unilateral statement, deeming it inappropriate for a leader of his stature and the LoP position. Viswam stressed that the LDF's usual approach is to resolve such issues through meetings between the leaders of both parties.

If Vijayan had made this decision without consultation, it clashed with the LDF culture of collaboration. Speculation exists that if the CPI does not secure the deputy LoP post, it may refrain from participating in formal LDF meetings and protests. Alternatively, the party might decide to operate as a distinct bloc within the Assembly.

Although a deputy LoP has not been officially appointed, former finance minister and senior CPM leader KN Balagopal currently occupies the chair designated for the deputy LoP.