P. Shanmugam Unanimously Elected Tamil Nadu CPI(M) Secretary at 24th State Conference

P. Shanmugam has been a member of the CPI(M) Central Committee and has actively participated in the Left movement since his student days.

He founded the Tamil Nadu Tribal Association, highlighting his lifelong dedication to marginalized communities.

Shanmugam gained national attention for his legal activism, particularly following the 1992 Vachathi incident in Dharmapuri, where police and forest officials brutally attacked tribal residents.

The efforts led by the association and CPI(M) leaders brought the issue to light, resulting in a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry.

In recognition of his contributions to social justice, Shanmugam was awarded the prestigious Ambedkar Award by the Tamil Nadu government.

His leadership and commitment to tribal rights and social equity have made him a revered figure within and beyond the CPI(M).

State Conference Outcomes

The three-day conference held in Villupuram saw the participation of key leaders, including Polit Bureau member Prakash Karat, outgoing State Secretary K. Balakrishnan, and over 80 senior party members.

Adhering to party rules that cap the age of the state secretary at 72, Shanmugam, younger and seasoned, was unanimously chosen to take the mantle as Balakrishnan completed six years in the role.

The conference addressed critical issues, adopting resolutions targeting systemic injustices and advocating for vulnerable communities.

Housing Rights and Evictions

The CPI(M) strongly opposed the eviction of poor families from waterbodies under judicial orders, calling for the provision of free housing titles to displaced individuals.

The party criticized the suppression of democratic protests and urged authorities to respect constitutional rights.

Rural and Urban Governance

A notable resolution rejected the state government’s decision to merge rural panchayats with municipal corporations, emphasizing the unique needs of rural communities.

The CPI(M) demanded that the government reconsider ward reorganization plans, advocating for tailored governance structures.

Education and Language Policy

The party reaffirmed its opposition to the imposition of Hindi and Sanskrit in Tamil Nadu, emphasizing the state’s linguistic and cultural identity.

Resolutions urged the government to address teacher vacancies and adopt a more inclusive education policy. The CPI(M) also criticized the National Education Policy (NEP) and the state’s approach, highlighting gaps in addressing grassroots challenges.

GST Revenue Disparities

Another resolution pointed out the unequal sharing of GST revenues, accusing the union government of favoring northern states over Tamil Nadu. The party demanded equitable policies to ensure fair treatment for the state.

Shanmugam’s Vision for Social Justice

Following his election, Shanmugam expressed his dedication to upholding the CPI(M)’s principles. “We will continue to fight for the working class and against caste-based oppression in Tamil Nadu. The struggle will persist until social justice prevails,” he said.

He also clarified that the party’s criticism of the DMK’s refusal to permit a conference rally was not intended as a personal attack.

Referring to an editorial in Murasoli, he stated, “Rallies and protests are constitutional rights provided to any individual in the country.

The editorial’s claim that the CPI(M) survives only due to its alliance with the DMK is an exaggeration. The CPI(M) always stands with the suffering masses.”

Shanmugam confirmed that K. Balakrishnan would remain a member of the party’s Central Committee, ensuring continuity in leadership.

A Unified Future for the CPI(M)

Shanmugam’s election as Tamil Nadu secretary signifies the party’s commitment to addressing social inequalities and championing the rights of marginalized communities.

Under his leadership, the CPI(M) aims to strengthen its grassroots movements and push for systemic reforms in housing, education, and governance.

With Shanmugam at the helm, the CPI(M) is poised to continue its fight for justice, advocating for policies that benefit the working class and disadvantaged groups.

As resolutions from the state conference take shape, the party’s dedication to its core principles remains steadfast.