CPM Kannur Secretary Refuses to Disclose Dhanaraj Martyr Fund Details, Expels Accuser
In a significant development amidst the ongoing controversy surrounding the Dhanaraj Martyr Fund, CPM Kannur District Secretary K.K. Ragesh has firmly stated that the audit details of the fund will not be made public. Ragesh, addressing the media, asserted that the Communist Party of India (Marxist) had not suffered any financial loss from the fund, despite admitting that the fund’s amount was temporarily diverted for other purposes. He clarified that necessary internal rectifications have been implemented within the party regarding this diversion.
During a press conference held in Kannur to explain the expulsion of V. Kunjikrishnan, a prominent district committee member, Ragesh emphasized that the party is not obligated to disclose its financial accounts to the media. He rejected Kunjikrishnan’s stance, stating that his claim of being the sole correct voice could not be accepted by the party.
The controversy stems from allegations of embezzlement related to the Dhanaraj Martyr Fund. In response, the CPM has taken stern action against V. Kunjikrishnan, expelling him from his primary membership. Ragesh accused Kunjikrishnan of ‘betraying the party’ and acting as a ‘tool for party enemies.’ He elaborated that Kunjikrishnan had resurrected allegations that the District Committee had already deliberated and decided upon in April 2022.
The District Secretary further labeled Kunjikrishnan as an ‘unworthy communist,’ asserting that his actions amounted to stabbing the party in the back. Ragesh specifically pointed to Kunjikrishnan’s timing of giving an interview, suggesting it was strategically chosen with upcoming elections in mind to damage the party’s image. Despite these internal challenges, Ragesh affirmed the CPM’s resilience and capability to confront such adversities.
The incident highlights growing internal rifts within the CPM in Kannur, a traditional stronghold for the party, and brings financial transparency within political organizations under public scrutiny. The party’s decision to keep the fund details private, while expelling a dissenting member, is likely to fuel further discussion and debate in the political landscape of Kerala.