B.N. Haskar, Banned by CPM for Criticizing CM, Joins RSP
Kollam: B.N. Haskar, a prominent Left-leaning observer and advocate, who recently faced a ban from the Communist Party of India (Marxist) after criticizing Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan during a television channel debate, is set to join the Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP).
Reports indicate that Haskar’s official induction into the RSP will take place on Thursday evening at Edappallikotta, during a memorial program commemorating former minister Baby John. Haskar, a practicing advocate based in Kollam, has been a familiar face in political discussions.
The genesis of the controversy stemmed from Haskar’s criticism of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for allowing SNDP Yogam General Secretary Vellappally Natesan to travel in his official car. Haskar publicly stated that the CPM’s continued justification of what he deemed a mistake by Pinarayi Vijayan, and the party’s inability to correct it, revealed hypocrisy. This public criticism led to his censure at a meeting of the CPM District Court Advocates’ Branch.
Following the incident, K. Somaprasad, a CPM State Committee member, summoned Haskar and issued a stern warning against participating in television debates under the designation of a ‘Left observer.’ In response, Haskar announced through the media that he had officially resigned from his position as a ‘Left observer’ and, with a touch of sarcasm, declared he had returned the ‘gunman’ reportedly provided by the party for his security. He further quipped, “Please convey to everyone that I was extremely frightened after receiving the reprimand.”
Haskar has a history of active involvement in student politics, having been a zealous SFI worker during his college days at SN College. Subsequent to the CPM ban, he reportedly engaged in multiple discussions with leaders of the RSP.
The Baby John memorial meeting, scheduled for 5 PM on Thursday, is expected to draw a significant political presence, with Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan and Muslim League leader P.K. Kunhalikutty confirmed to attend.