M.M. Mani warns Rajendran against ‘posing threat to CPI(M)’

Former Electricity Minister and CPI(M) veteran M.M. Mani has issued a stern warning to former Devikulam MLA S. Rajendran, who recently joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Speaking at a CPI(M) public meeting in Munnar on Sunday, Mr. Mani said that if Mr. Rajendran posed a threat to the party, the party would deal with it. “The CPI(M) made Mr. Rajendran the district panchayat president and a three-time MLA. The party is under no obligation to maintain him as an MLA indefinitely. We have no issue with him joining the BJP, the RSS, or any other party. But if he challenges the CPI(M) after receiving so many benefits, the party will deal with it,” Mr. Mani warned.  

In response, Mr. Rajendran said he was not afraid of Mr. Mani’s threats. “When I was with the CPI(M), I provided complete support to the party,” he said. Sources said Mr. Rajendran was planning legal action against Mr. Mani regarding the public threat.

BJP meet in Munnar

Following months of speculation, Mr. Rajendran officially joined the BJP on January 18. The BJP has scheduled a public meeting in Munnar on February 8 and expects more leaders from the plantation sector to join the party. The party is also looking to expand its influence in the tribal community, including the Edamalakkudy tribal panchayat, with Mr. Rajendran’s support.

Sources said the CPI(M) has become increasingly vigilant following Mr. Rajendran’s move to the BJP. “Previously, CPI(M) leaders had claimed that the party had no problems with Mr. Rajendran joining any party. However, Mr. Mani’s reaction indicates that the party is afraid of Mr. Rajendran’s influence in the Assembly elections in Devikulam,” said a source.