Fri Oct 24 22:42:00 UTC 2025: ## CPI(M) Attempts to Mend Fences with CPI After PM-SHRI Scheme Controversy

Thiruvananthapuram, October 25, 2025 – The ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) in Kerala is facing internal friction after the state government “surreptitiously” signed the PM-SHRI scheme agreement with the central government. The Communist Party of India (CPI), the second largest constituent of the LDF, openly criticized the move, alleging it was “anti-federal and reactionary” and done without proper consultation. The scheme aims to secure an estimated ₹1,446 crore in central grants for school education.

In response, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)], the dominant party in the LDF, appears to be making efforts to appease the CPI. CPI(M) State Secretary M V Govindan stated at a press conference that the signing of the PM-SHRI MoU would not prevent further debate within the LDF and cabinet. He assured that any disputes could be resolved through consensus.

Govindan also emphasized that the LDF would reject the central government’s condition linking the release of statutory federal grants for school education to the acceptance of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)-inspired National Education Policy (NEP). He declared that Kerala needs the funds without compromising on the NEP and that the “Sangh Parivar’s writ won’t run in progressive Kerala.”

Govindan criticized the Congress party for setting similar political conditions for grant releases in the past, claiming the BJP was merely following their example. He pointed out that Congress-led governments in Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Telangana have already joined the PM-SHRI scheme.

Meanwhile, Leader of the Opposition V D Satheesan of the Congress party accused Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of unilaterally surrendering to the Centre’s demands to implement the NEP. He challenged Vijayan to explain what prompted his decision and questioned the CPI’s silence.

Capitalizing on the rift within the LDF, the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) has extended an invitation to the CPI to join their coalition. UDF convenor Adoor Prakash stated that the UDF would welcome the CPI if it chose to break away from the CPI(M).

The situation presents a potential political challenge for the LDF government, with the opposition attempting to exploit the apparent discord between the CPI(M) and CPI. The future of the coalition and the acceptance of the PM-SHRI scheme in Kerala remains to be seen as the debate unfolds.

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