CPM says it's wrong to single out Vijayan for poll defeat; calls for collective responsibility

The CPM stated it would remain inside the democratic process but outside the Tamil Nadu government for now, arguing that substantial numbers are needed to have a meaningful say. The party indicated an invitation is open to all three parties to join the Tamil Nadu government and highlighted it would join the government only if it could secure a substantial share of power.

Baby called Vijay's TVK victory in Tamil Nadu spectacular, noting that CPM, CPI and allied parties took a timely stand to avert horse-trading and honour the people's verdict.

Baby said the defeat of the LDF in Kerala was a serious setback for the left and democratic forces. He noted the LDF's ten years in government under challenging circumstances and pointed out that the BJP won three seats in Kerala, with the LDF finishing second in those seats.

Baby announced that the CPM central committee will meet from May 22-24 to conduct an in-depth analysis of the poll results, including the Kerala setback and the situation related to elections in West Bengal.

CPM general secretary MA Baby told reporters after a polit-bureau meeting that it was wrong to single out outgoing Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan for the defeat. He said the party is a collective entity and that no single comrade should be held responsible; the leadership will assess results, engage with cadres, and undertake self-criticism and corrective measures.

In 1996, the CPM central committee decided against Jyoti Basu becoming Prime Minister to lead a United Front government, arguing that joining a bourgeois-centre coalition without a majority would hinder left policies. Basu reportedly accepted the decision but later called it a 'historical blunder'.