A dispute between the Communist Party of India (CPI) and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] over contesting in two wards is threatening to fracture the Left Democratic Front (LDF) in Thrikkakara municipality, with the CPI announcing its intention to contest independently due to the CPI(M)’s alleged intransigence.
The CPI took a firm stance by unilaterally announcing candidates in four wards—Sahakarana Road, Health Centre, Snehanilayam, and Kannankeri—on Thursday. The two LDF constituents have been at odds over the right to contest in the Health Centre and Sahakarana Road wards, effectively stalling seat-sharing discussions in the municipality, which has traditionally been a United Democratic Front (UDF) stronghold.
While the CPI claims these wards fall within its sphere of influence, the CPI(M) insists on contesting them based on winnability. Reportedly, the dispute remains unresolved despite intervention by both State and district leaderships.
“We will reconsider our decision if the CPI(M) concedes our demand for those two seats. Otherwise, we will contest another 16 or so seats independently. The matter was discussed by the district leaderships of both parties as recently as Thursday evening, but the CPI(M) refused to give up its claim. Damaging the LDF is not our intention, but LDF unity cannot come at the cost of our party,” said a senior CPI leader.
