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Action against could have been harsher, says Karat
Kerala Chief Minister VS Achuthanandan, recently axed from Politburo for indiscipline, could have faced harsher action but was spared because of his valuable contributions and long service to the party, CPM General Secretary Prakash Karat said on Sunday.
Kerala Chief Minister VS Achuthanandan, recently axed from Politburo for indiscipline, could have faced harsher action but was spared because of his valuable contributions and long service to the party, CPM General Secretary Prakash Karat said on Sunday.
Briefing the party's lower tiers about the reasons for the action against Achuthanandan, he said maintaining discipline and upholding the CPM's principles at all levels were vital for the party to carry on its tasks effectively.
Karat's observations came during his briefing of the party functionaries on the long-drawn factionalism involving groups loyal to Achuthanandan and state secretary Pinarayi Vijiayan at zonal meetings held in Vatakara and Kochi on Friday and Saturday, CPM sources said.
Karat, however, said a veteran leader like Achuthanandan, who had held several top positions in the party, need not be given lessons on organisational principles.
He wanted the party functionaries at all levels to overcome the temptation to amass wealth and avoid arrogant behaviour by leading a simple life as expected of a Communist.
During his visit to the state, Karat also had one-on-one meeting with Achuthanandan, who according to sources, wanted the central leadership to ensure that no "vengeful actions" were taken against the people down the party tiers in the name of tackling factionalism.
Achuthanandan made the point in the backdrop of reports that the official leadership had plans to take action against the party functionaries who were identified with him.
