Sathisan’s pointed remarks have put CPI-M on the backfoot, spotlighting the party’s embarrassing reversal on KM Mani. What began as a vicious campaign of defamation has morphed into strategic courtship, exposing the fragility of ideological purity in Kerala’s cutthroat politics.
Mani, a towering figure in Kerala Congress for over five decades, faced CPI-M’s wrath in 2016 amid a bar scam uproar. Party cadres protested outside his home, leaders called for his resignation, and the media echoed relentless attacks. Mani’s isolation was complete.
Enter the present: CPI-M envoys now seek his endorsement, praising his ‘wisdom’ and ‘experience.’ Sathisan, speaking at a packed meeting in Thrissur, dissected this hypocrisy with surgical precision. ‘Apman se samman tak ka safar,’ he quipped, invoking the original Hindi phrase for dramatic effect.
This isn’t isolated; it’s symptomatic of Kerala’s alliance merry-go-round. With LDF eyeing a third term, Mani’s 10-12 seats are golden. Sathisan warned that such deals betray the working class CPI-M claims to champion, urging a return to grassroots values.
Public reaction is mixed. Supporters hail Sathisan’s candor, while CPI-M loyalists dismiss it as sour grapes. Polling data suggests voter cynicism is rising, potentially benefiting independents like Sathisan.
In conclusion, the Mani episode crystallizes the contradictions plaguing modern Left politics. Sathisan’s intervention ensures it won’t fade quietly, promising richer discourse as Kerala heads to the hustings. The real winner? An electorate increasingly savvy to political theater.