Published Apr 18, 2026 | 4:22 PM ⚊ Updated Apr 18, 2026 | 4:22 PM
CPI Kerala.
Synopsis: According to party sources, the action was taken after an internal review concluded that the voice in the recording—purportedly seeking support for the BJP and expressing intent to defeat LDF candidate V. Sivankutty—belonged to Sulochanan.
In a fresh controversy from Nemom, a constituency in Thiruvananthapuram known for tightly fought Assembly contests, the CPI has suspended its district council member VS Sulochanan following the emergence of an alleged audio clip suggesting anti-party activity.
According to party sources, the action was taken after an internal review concluded that the voice in the recording—purportedly seeking support for the BJP and expressing intent to defeat LDF candidate V. Sivankutty—belonged to Sulochanan.
The decision was finalised at a district council meeting, convened on the other day, attended by senior leaders, including state secretary Binoy Viswam and minister G. R. Anil.
The audio clip, reportedly a private conversation, contains remarks critical of Sivankutty and hints at covert support for rival candidates.
Party leadership viewed these as serious violations, especially amid an already charged political atmosphere in Nemom.
However, Sulochanan has denied the allegations, asserting that he has remained loyal to the CPI throughout his four-decade-long political career.
He also claimed that he learned about his suspension through media reports and has not received any official communication from the party.
Describing the conversation as personal, he maintained that it has been misinterpreted.
The CPI has indicated that further inquiry into the matter may follow, as the controversy adds a new dimension to the political climate in Nemom.
