CPI(M) Leader M.A. Baby Urges Party Reform Amid Growing BJP Influence in Kerala

CPI(M) Leader M.A. Baby Calls for Introspection and Reform Within the Party

Thiruvananthapuram, April 2025 — M.A. Baby, a senior leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and a prominent figure in Kerala politics, has been vocal in recent months about the internal issues facing his party, urging reform and introspection at multiple levels.

In a speech delivered during the CPI(M)'s Thiruvananthapuram district conference held in Kovalam in December 2024, Baby acknowledged that the party's organizational structure was facing certain weaknesses. He noted a decline in cohesive strength, citing internal deficiencies and the need to plug “leakages” that have hindered the party's unity and effectiveness. He emphasized the urgency for corrective measures to restore the CPI(M)'s former strength.

Earlier, in July 2024, Baby addressed concerns regarding the party's declining mass base, pointing out the growing influence of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Kerala. He warned that the BJP’s increasing vote share should not be taken lightly and stressed the importance of regaining public trust through immediate and meaningful course correction by the Left.

In September 2024, Baby turned his attention to gender representation and internal culture within the CPI(M), openly admitting that patriarchal tendencies still exist within the party's framework. He called for a stronger push toward inclusivity and acknowledged efforts being made, such as the inclusion of women leaders like Brinda Karat and Subhasini Ali in the politburo. However, he urged for these efforts to be extended to all levels of leadership and grassroots organization to ensure true gender equality.

M.A. Baby’s candid remarks reflect a broader effort within the CPI(M) to realign with its foundational values while addressing modern political realities. His calls for reform come at a time when the party faces both internal challenges and external competition, especially from rising right-wing political forces in Kerala.

As CPI(M) prepares for upcoming political battles, Baby’s voice stands out as a reminder of the need for self-assessment and evolution in the face of changing times.