The Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)], which had earlier come under criticism for soft-pedalling unsavoury remarks made by Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana (SNDP) Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesan, has now slammed Mr. Natesan’s recent derisive remarks against CPI(M) State committee member and former Speaker of Keralam Assembly A.N. Shamseer.

Leader of the Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan termed ‘absurd’ Mr. Natesan’s recent barb that Mr. Shamseer had the mentality of the Indian Union Muslim League. Mr. Vijayan said no leader in the CPI(M) rose to prominence through shortcuts. “They attain positions after putting in years of hard work in society. Such statements are therefore contemptuously discarded by the party,” he said.

The CPI(M) State secretariat said in a statement that Mr. Natesan’s remarks provided fodder for communalism. It said the party worked for social change by organising people from all sections. It was therefore deplorable to view party members, who work towards the same goal, through a divisive lens, the statement said.

Yogam’s role

The CPI(M) said the Yogam had played a significant role in shaping Keralam‘s secularism. It held firmly to the Sree Narayana philosophy that the essence of all religions was the same. This stance contributed immensely to shaping Keralam’s secular mind. Such a statement should not have come from a person holding the post of secretary of that organisation, the party said.

Published - August 22, 2026 09:26 pm IST