Congress high command pulls up leaders over Kerala CM debate

T'puram: Congress high command expressed displeasure over the ongoing public debate within the state unit on the CM candidate and directed all functionaries to immediately stop such discussions. AICC general secretary Deepa Dasmunshi conveyed the directive to state leaders following instructions from LS opposition leader Rahul Gandhi.Sources said Rahul voiced dissatisfaction over leaders engaging in premature discussions about the chief ministerial post despite an earlier order to avoid speculation. During a recent KPCC meeting held online, Dasmunshi reiterated AICC's concerns and warned that the party would take action against those who continue to fuel such debates. The high command also noted that these discussions have led to public ridicule that could damage the party's image.In a related development KPCC decided to initiate disciplinary action over a full-page advertorial published in an English daily projecting Ramesh Chennithala as a probable CM candidate if the party won the elections. The party viewed the move as a breach of discipline.Despite a prior KPCC directive banning public statements on the issue, instances of violations continue. The controversy intensified on Tuesday after a flex board supporting Chennithala and criticizing opposition leader VD Satheesan appeared in Ernakulam, causing embarrassment to the party. Leaders aligned with Chennithala denied involvement. Chennithala who is in New Delhi declined to comment.Taking a firm stand, Rahul emphasized that internal contests over the CM post are unwarranted and should arise only after the results are declared. He instructed KPCC to immediately end public claims and social media campaigns by supporters.The issue also triggered unease among UDF allies. Kerala Congress (Joseph) clarified that it will not take sides amid reports of divisions and described the CM debate as unnecessary. Coalition partners have already conveyed their concerns to Congress high command.Meanwhile, KPCC began disciplinary proceedings in state and issued a show cause notice to Thiruvananthapuram DCC general secretary A Prijin Babu for publishing the advertorial supporting Chennithala. The party said that his failure to provide a satisfactory explanation within three days will invite further action.Earlier, AICC and KPCC had instructed leaders and workers to refrain from making public statements through print, visual media or social platforms regarding the CM's post, warning that such actions could harm the party's credibility.