Two Dozen CPI(M) Members Resign in Palakkad Over Leadership Dispute

Around two dozen members of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) resigned from the party in Palakkad on Sunday, protesting the demotion of area committee member and municipal councillor Abdul Shukoor after he criticized district secretary E.N. Suresh Babu. The resignations came from four branch committees and signal growing dissent within the party's local ranks.

The dispute intensified after Shukoor raised allegations against the district leadership during an area committee meeting, prompting his removal from the post. Resigning members accused Suresh Babu of sidelining and humiliating Shukoor, and they called for the district secretary's removal.

The dissidents announced plans to hold a convention later this month for CPI(M) members who claim to have been mistreated or forced out of the party, with an MLA-elect from north Malabar set to lead the event. Shukoor is considering stepping down from his remaining positions, including his seat on the Palakkad municipal council.

The party leadership has not issued an official response. The court will resume hearing on Tuesday.