Thiruvananthapuram: A major political controversy has erupted in Kerala after veteran CPM leader G. Sudhakaran openly admitted that postal ballots were tampered with during the 1989 Lok Sabha elections in Alappuzha district. His explosive revelation has shocked political circles and prompted swift action from the Election Commission of India, which has ordered an enquiry into the incident.
Sudhakaran, a former minister and long-time leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), made the revelation during a recent public interaction, claiming that postal votes were manipulated to secure a victory for the party. He also said it was a “common practice” during that time.
The remarks have triggered widespread condemnation from opposition parties, who are now demanding a full-scale investigation and legal action. The Congress and BJP have accused the CPM of undermining democracy and called for Sudhakaran’s prosecution.
The Election Commission, taking serious note of the statement, has sought a report from the Chief Electoral Officer of Kerala and is examining legal provisions under which action can be initiated.
Meanwhile, the CPM leadership has distanced itself from Sudhakaran’s comments, stating that the party does not endorse any form of electoral malpractice and that his remarks reflect a “personal opinion”, not party policy.
The incident has reignited debates about electoral integrity and transparency in India’s democratic process, particularly in historical elections.
