Kannur: Since its formation in 1947, the Karivellur Peralam panchayat seat located at the northernmost tip of Kannur district of Kerala, bordering Kasargod, has been an unbroken bastion of the leftists. There has never been a single opposition member in the history of this panchayat, and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the Left Democratic Front (LDF) have continuously ruled the region.
In the last local body elections, this panchayat had 14 seats, all occupied by the leftists. However, after the recent ward redivision, the number of seats has increased to 16. This election is even more important, as political observers, including the Congress and the BJP, are keeping a close watch on this. In such a situation, the big question is whether this change will ultimately give the opposition representation in Karivellur Peralam.
If you look at it, this panchayat is steeped in the legacy of farmers’ struggles. And they are remembered by martyrs’ memorials. This underlines its deep leftist identity. The leadership here has remained steadfast over the decades. The list of Karivellur Peralam Panchayat presidents from 1947 till date shows the continuity of Left rule.
The panchayat currently comprises 16 wards. These mainly have members of the CPI(M). It includes one member of the LJD. The special thing is that the LJD is also in alliance with the LDF in Kerala.
Despite the absence of opposition members, the CPM leadership and governing body are actively preparing for the upcoming local elections and emphasizing the achievements of the previous term. The panchayat currently has 21,105 registered voters in 16 wards.
Highlighting the ongoing development efforts, Panchayat President A V Leju said, “Other political parties do not hinder development and all development activities are moving forward simultaneously.”
Leju elaborates on the major achievements: “12 hectares of land had become barren, but despite the severe effects of climate change, we survived thanks to the district block panchayat funds. The panchayat has 33 libraries, which have promoted cultural friendship beyond just reading.”
He also mentioned social welfare initiatives and said, “Many libraries have been included in the Jeevan Bhavana project. Its aim is to provide shelter to all.
The panchayat has been declared extreme poverty free and has received 7 major awards including three Swaraj Trophies and two Bal-Mitra Puraskars. This recognition reflects the success of our development efforts.”
However, public activist Haridas points out the lack of political plurality as a democratic concern. “Karivellur Peralam in Kannur district is a one-sided CPM panchayat. For democracy to flourish, the presence of all political parties is necessary. Citing the struggles and history of farmers, continuing with the old ways is creating obstacles in the progress of the panchayat.”
He added, “A strong opposition is necessary to pave a clear path for the development of the country. Opposition members raise the development needs of their wards before the administrative committee for the attention of the President. Ward member Thampan also said, ‘We play the role of opposition when needed.'”
The recent Lok Sabha elections have also signalled a change in political dynamics in this Left bastion. While Karivellur Peralam remains a historic centre of farmers’ agitations, the CPI(M) has lost a lot of votes in the Kasargod parliamentary constituency. BJP candidate ML Ashwini and Congress leader Rajmohan Unnithan have gained a significant lead in several wards.
The BJP, Congress and other opposition parties are hoping that these trends will influence the upcoming local body elections in Karivellur Peralam.
