Existential angst grips RMP, leaders

Neglecting mounting protests from various quarters within the party, the RMP accepted support from two IUML members to retain power in the panchayat watering down its much hyped ideals that it would not enter in to a tie up with the UDF. In Chorode panchayat, the RMP supported the UDF to ensure that the CPM was out of power.

An RMP leader who preferred anonymity told DC that the party was struggling to sustain as it needed huge sums of money to manage the countless legal wrangles on in connection with countless clashes with CPM workers”, he said. “Moreover the CPM has intensified its attack on RMP workers leaving many bedridden”, he added.

“At this point it would be suicidal for us if we lose power in the Onc-hiyam panchayat. The move to accept support from UDF members was a decision taken after deliberations at the grassroots”, he said.

But RMP state leader N. Venu told DC that it was the lack of alertness that resulted in losing two seats in Onchiyam. “On the other side, the CPM ensured not only their own votes but also votes in favour of us through open votes,” he said, adding that more than hundred open votes were registered in several wards as the CPM insisted on it to ensure votes in their kitty.

What worries RMP is the fact that with P. Mohanan, one of the accused who was acquitted in the T.P. murder, at the helm of affairs of CPM in Kozhikode district, the party has strengthened its attack on RMP cadres and leaders, physically as well as politically. During the last two weeks, three party sympathizers were attacked allegedly by CPM cadres, according to RMP.

The RMP also failed to garner considerable number of additional seats even in the Vadakara belt. The only relief RMP cadres had is that with its support, the CPM lost its rule in Chorode village panchayat though the district leadership feigned ignorance about the support.