V. Kunhikrishnan’s book released amid tight security

A book authored by V. Kunhikrishnan, who was expelled from the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] Kannur district committee and its primary membership for alleging embezzlement of martyr’s fund by the party, was released at Gandhi Park in Payyannur on Wednesday amid heavy police security and strong opposition from the party.

The book Nethruthwathe Anigal Nokki Tiruthanam (Leadership should be corrected by the Ranks), was released by Joseph C. Mathew, former IT adviser to ex-Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan. He handed over the first copy to writer V.S. Anil Kumar, son of the late critic M.N. Vijayan.

Despite opposition from the CPI(M), a large crowd turned up for the event, with many coming onto the stage to congratulate Mr. Kunhikrishnan, while slogans of ‘Inquilab Zindabad’ were raised by the audience.

In his welcome address, Mr. Kunhikrishnan alleged that a campaign was being carried out on new media platforms claiming that the book release had been postponed. He said that he was facing personal abuse, including nasty messages circulated through WhatsApp. Describing the attacks as attempts at ‘character assassination,’ he alleged that Goebbelsian propaganda tactics were being employed even now.

Recalling VS’s stance

Speaking after releasing the book, Mr. Mathew said that Mr. Kunhikrishnan was raising issues similar to those once raised by Achuthanandan, who he recalled, had been expelled from the Polit Bureau for standing by what he believed was the truth. He asked when communism and truth had become separate entities.

Mr. Kunhikrishnan had earlier approached the High Court, citing the possibility of disruption by CPI(M) workers. Following this, heavy police security was arranged at the venue on the directive of the district police chief.

The book release comes against the backdrop of sustained criticism from CPI(M) leaders. Over the past two days, CPI(M) State secretary M.V. Govindan and others had strongly attacked Mr. Kunhikrishnan.

Addressing the reception of the LDF’s Vikasana Munnetta Jatha in Payyannur, Mr. Govindan had remarked that Mr. Kunhikrishnan’s place was “in the dustbin of history.” Party-affiliated cyber groups have also mounted sharp criticism of him on social media platforms.