Tensions have flared between the Communist Party of India (CPI) and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)], allies in Kerala’s ruling coalition, over the issue of land grabbing in the hill district of Idukki. The CPI criticized the CPI(M) for not taking stronger action against the land mafia illegally acquiring land in the district.
The former CPI district secretary, KK Sivaraman, even suggested a more aggressive approach, stating that instead of dismemberment, the authorities should “slash their heads” and redistribute the land to the poor and landless, especially estate laborers. This public disagreement highlights underlying tensions within the ruling coalition over various issues.