Kochi: Amidst complaints that CPM has been losing control over government since Pinarayi Vijayan assumed office as chief minister in 2016, the party has issued guidelines for functioning of the government. The guidelines approved by the state committee a few days ago state that the party should act as a corrective force if the government or ministers err.
The party has to bring up issues that affect the life of the public to the government’s notice, the guidelines state. It is quite normal that vested interests may try to influence the government and some may try to become power centres but such tendencies shouldn’t be allowed. Those who have power must not be allowed to use it for taking vengeance or protecting personal interests, the guidelines state.
During its first term, Pinarayi Vijayan’s government had faced allegations that it was gaining supremacy over the party. Advisors, including the principal secretary to the chief minister were accused of becoming power centres.
It was also alleged that power was being misused for waging personal vendetta. Sources said certain suggestions in the guidelines were prepared against such a background.
“During his first stint, Vijayan took only a few minutes to decide on inviting investments from global major Nissan to the state. He did not consult the party and he enjoyed the freedom to make such decisions. It was a good decision but he may not be able to take such crucial decisions single-handedly anymore,” said Jacob George, political analyst.
“He will now have to consult the party before taking such policy decisions. Vijayan is a party man and it is sure that he will abide by party diktat,” he said.
CPM politburo member M A Baby said the guidelines were made to improve the government’s performance.
“During the term of the first Pinarayi government, a lot of pro-people measures were taken. The government took the people into confidence while tiding over various crises like flood and pandemic. It is this extraordinary performance that ensured government continuity despite propaganda by political opponents and a section of the media,” Baby said.
“With LDF getting a second consecutive mandate, there is an added responsibility. We will have to put up a better show. Given the fact that the state government’s performance has been very good, though it is difficult to improve the rating, the party will be taking all measures to better the government’s performance. If there are any issues which are to be addressed, the party would point them out,” Baby said.
The guidelines also stress the point that those coming to the offices of ministers for various reasons need to be treated well.
