Rejecting TVK leader Vijay’s description of the DMK — a democratic force — as an ‘evil force’, CPI State secretary M. Veerapandian said those who divide the country on the basis of religion and caste were the real ‘evil forces’.
Speaking to media in Tiruchi ahead of a meeting of district secretaries, he said the party had hoped for clarity from Mr. Vijay on ideology and policy but was left disappointed. Referring to leaders from other parties joining the TVK, he questioned whether those with a “tainted past” became “pure” merely by associating with Mr. Vijay.
Responding to a question on the BJP, Mr. Veerapandian said it was neither an ‘evil force’ nor a ‘pure force’, but a “dangerous force”.
On governance issues, he urged that the Union government not to tamper with the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), including any attempt to rename it. “This is a lifeline for crores of poor people. While we welcome the increase in workdays, the Centre must ensure full financial allocation instead of shifting the burden to State governments,” he said.
Referring to recent political developments in Kerala, Mr. Veerapandian said the Left had suffered a minor setback but would introspect and return stronger in the next Assembly election. He described the BJP’s victory in Thiruvananthapuram as “alarming”, alleging that it was achieved by stoking communal sentiments.
To a question, he said the CPI had the moral right to seek 30 to 40 Assembly seats and Chief Minister M.K. Stalin would not take it negatively but would take a final call based on alliance dynamics.
Published – December 19, 2025 07:51 pm IST
