A party which once had 44 Members of Parliament and was a formidable political force to reckon with in controlling UPA-I and -II has now become weak and meek in political influence and stature (Editorial – “Theory and practice, October 6). The eroding base of the CPI(M) in West Bengal is making its leaders think of desperate measures. Nonetheless, the situation in Kerala is quite different. The party is in a convincingly solid position in Keralaand an alliance will undoubtedly undermine its credibility as a strong political force. Moreover, such a decision will not find favour with the cadres. It is an undeniable fact that there are two factions in the CPI(M) right now. The need of the hour for the CPI(M) is to consolidate its base in the hinterlands. Limiting itself to campus communism will further shrink it in politics.
Ravi Mannethu,
Pullad, Kerala
