CPI(M) district secretary V. Joy, alongside senior leaders, refuted claims of internal discord during a joint press conference. He warned that fabricated narratives are being spread to undermine the party and divert public focus from the Vizhinjam port protest.

Key Takeaways

  • CPI(M) Thiruvananthapuram leaders deny any factionalism.
  • Protests continue against Adani's 49% stake transfer in Vizhinjam.
  • Anti‑communist media accused of spreading false narratives.

CPI(M) Thiruvananthapuram district leadership gathered on Friday, July 10, 2026, to unequivocally reject reports of internal differences. District secretary V. Joy asserted, “Certain sections are circulating fake narratives to destroy the party and distract public attention from the Vizhinjam protests.”

Background of the Vizhinjam Stake Transfer

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd announced its plan to divest a 49% stake in the Vizhinjam Port to Switzerland‑based MSC Group, sparking political backlash across Kerala. CPI(M) labeled the move a “betrayal of national strategic assets” and organized multiple rallies. Speculation arose when former Education Minister V. Sivankutty was absent from a scheduled protest, but he appeared alongside Joy and other senior leaders to dismiss the rumors.

Media Allegations and Mayor’s Claims

Sivankutty accused “anti‑communist media” of inflating internal party meetings into sensational news, stating that no real factionalism exists. He also countered Thiruvananthapuram Mayor V.V. Rajesh’s accusation that CPI(M) cadres were dumping waste across the city to tarnish the BJP‑led administration.

Comments on the District Hospital Incident

Senior leader Kadakampally Surendran highlighted a tragic episode at Neyyattinkara district hospital where a patient with chest pain collapsed after being forced to stand for over half an hour. “Authorities cannot wash their hands by scapegoating security staff; the Health Minister must also be held accountable,” he demanded, calling for a thorough investigation.

Implications for Kerala’s Political Landscape

By presenting a united front, Joy and Sivankutty aim to neutralize opposition tactics that thrive on portraying internal splits. Their firm stance could reinforce CPI(M)’s credibility ahead of the upcoming state elections, where any perception of discord could be exploited by rival parties. The continued Vizhinjam protests, coupled with calls for accountability in health services, underscore the party’s broader strategy to challenge both corporate decisions and governmental mismanagement.