Thiruvananthapuram, June 15: The CPI(M) has suspended senior leader and former Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president A. Padmakumar from the party, in a move widely seen as an attempt to address the political fallout of the alleged Sabarimala gold scam controversy that shadowed the Left Democratic Front (LDF) during the recent Kerala Assembly elections.
Padmakumar, a member of the CPI(M) Pathanamthitta district committee, had until now enjoyed strong support from sections of the party leadership despite persistent allegations and sustained attacks from opposition parties over the issue. The controversy had emerged as a major campaign plank against the LDF, particularly in central Kerala districts with significant influence from Sabarimala-related issues.
Party sources said the CPI(M) leadership recently reviewed the reasons behind the LDF’s electoral setback and concluded that the Sabarimala gold scam allegations had caused considerable political damage. Following directions from the state leadership, the Pathanamthitta district committee initiated disciplinary proceedings against Padmakumar.
The decision to suspend him was taken at a district committee meeting attended by senior CPI(M) leader and former Finance Minister Thomas Isaac. The district secretariat subsequently met and endorsed the action. While there were discussions within the party about taking stronger measures, including expulsion, the leadership ultimately opted for suspension. The period of suspension has not yet been officially announced.
Sources indicated that Padmakumar’s efforts to mobilise support within the party may have contributed to the decision against imposing harsher punishment. However, party leaders have not ruled out the possibility of further disciplinary action depending on the outcome of the proceedings.
Speaking to reporters, Thomas Isaac said the party would seek a detailed explanation from Padmakumar as part of the disciplinary process. He also dismissed speculation that the leadership feared disclosures from Padmakumar, who is reportedly working on an autobiography.
In recent days, Padmakumar had reportedly told close associates that he could reveal sensitive details if disciplinary action was taken against him, adding fresh intrigue to the controversy and intensifying attention on the party’s internal handling of the issue.
