KPCC Imposes Discipline on Party Workers Over Internal Feuds on Policy and Postings

The Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) has issued a strict set of guidelines to its workers, especially spokespersons and media panellists, warning them against airing internal party differences on television talk shows and social media platforms. The directive comes amid a series of public spats that have created a perception of a divided party.

KPCC general secretary Deepthi Mary Varghese cautioned that any deviation from the party line would invite disciplinary action. The move caps a fortnight of fractious infighting, with party members openly clashing over the Chief Minister's actions and key appointments.

The immediate trigger was an incident where Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan allegedly ignored Kerala Students Union (KSU) state president Aloshious Xavier at a public function. The KSU, which has been at odds with the Chief Minister over the appointment of government pleaders, alleged that some appointees had links to the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)].

In contrast, KPCC president V.M. Sudheeran publicly praised Xavier for his courage, while stressing that such opinions should be expressed within party forums, not in public. Another flashpoint was the appointment of N. Seshadrinathan as State Election Commissioner, which was opposed by KPCC general secretary P.M. Niyas, who accused the former judicial officer of having links to the Sangh Parivar.

Additionally, social media handles believed to be pro-Congress attacked the Chief Minister for meeting leaders of the Hindu Aikya Vedi while reportedly refusing to meet Niyas. The infighting has provided ammunition for the opposition, prompting an urgent meeting of the party's Political Affairs Committee (PAC).

Chief Minister Satheesan had earlier lashed out at the KSU, stating that the student organisation cannot dictate government appointments. The Chief Minister's Office has not issued an official clarification, but sources indicated surprise that Xavier had raised the matter in a controversial Facebook post before approaching the government. Xavier has since sought an appointment with the Chief Minister to clear the air.