Kerala CM Says ‘Chettatharam’ Refers To Betrayal, Not Insult To Former CPI(M) Leader
Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan clarifies ‘chettatharam’ remark on Sudhakaran, saying it reflects betrayal, not personal insult.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan defended his recent remarks describing former CPI(M) leader G Sudhakaran as exhibiting “chettatharam,” a Malayalam term often translated as meanness, cheapness, or vile behavior. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Vijayan clarified that his choice of words was intended to criticize Sudhakaran’s political actions, not to insult him personally.
“I said political ‘chettatharam.’ It is a term I have used several times in the past. It does not mean I am calling someone ‘chetta’,” Vijayan explained. He emphasized that the remark referred specifically to Sudhakaran’s perceived betrayal of Marxist ideology, rather than being a personal attack. “That is how it should be seen,” the Chief Minister added.
The comment had sparked a heated exchange between CPI(M) and Sudhakaran. The former leader alleged that Vijayan was misusing Malayalam terminology, suggesting that the Chief Minister did not fully understand the words he employed. In turn, Congress general secretary K C Venugopal accused CPI(M) leaders of attempting to redefine ‘chettatharam’ to defend Vijayan’s statement.
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Sudhakaran, a four-time MLA from Alappuzha, chose not to renew his party membership, citing harassment on social media and sidelining by CPI(M) leaders. The decision to contest independently has intensified political tensions in the region, as he now receives backing from the United Democratic Front (UDF), which has opted not to field a candidate from Ambalapuzha.
The upcoming election, scheduled for April 9, will see Sudhakaran contesting against sitting MLA and CPI(M) leader H Salam. Analysts note that the campaign reflects broader intra-party conflicts and shifting alliances, highlighting the political volatility in Kerala ahead of the polls.
Observers suggest that Vijayan’s remarks and Sudhakaran’s break from the party underline deeper ideological and organizational disputes within CPI(M). As the election approaches, political rhetoric is expected to intensify, with both sides framing the contest as a struggle for loyalty, ideology, and voter support in a key constituency.
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