KOZHIKODE: Opposition Leader V S Achuthanandan held discussions with author and CPM leader N V Balakrishnan on Sunday.
Balakrishnan recently returned to the party-fold after a year’s suspension from its primary membership following allegations of financial irregularities. The party readmitted Balakrishnan as a branch committee member, a step below his former position as the Koyilandy area committee secretary. ‘
Achuthanandan met Balakrishnan privately before the unveiling of the latter’s book -- Matham, Laingikatha, Mooladhanam, Paristhithi. Earlier, CPM state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan had disagreed to the release of the book. Achuthanandan said certain people within the party ranks have been trying to nail Balakrishnan.
Graft Charges
Meanwhile, hours before the unveiling function of the book, a pamphlet was brought out against Balakrishnan, accusing him of financial irregularities. “Balakrishnan has been trying to flare up anti-CPM emotions.
He has swindled Rs 3.5 lakh from the party area committee funds and also obtained Rs 9 lakh from the Nayanar Fund through fraudulent means,” stated the short notice that was circulated through WhatsApp.
Achuthanandan also criticised the UDF Government for ignoring the needs of small scale quarry workers and owners. for the lack of interest.“The government is not bothered about the travails of the small scale quarry industry.
The Oommen Chandy government is hand-in-glove with land and mining mafia,” VS said.