CPI losing national party tag only a technicality, not hindrance: Kanam Rajendran

Thiruvananthapuram: CPI state secretary Kanam Rajendran on Tuesday said the Election Commission (EC) withdrawing the Communist Party of India's national party status was only a technicality.

He also said the change in status is not a hindrance to the organisation's work.

"The party existed even before it got recognition. However, the EC should have given due consideration to other criteria before revoking its status," said Kanam, adding other matters will be decided by the national leadership.

Meanwhile, in a statement on Tuesday, the national leadership said the CPI is one of the oldest political parties in the country and continues to have a pan-India presence and mass following.

"The Election Commission of India should have given due consideration to the rich history of the Communist Party of India and its preeminent role in the fight against the British Raj and its role in shaping the national agenda in post-independent India. The CPI has remained at the forefront in strengthening the democratic polity of the country," it said.

It further said the CPI will continue its dedicated service for the country and struggle for the rights of the people.

The statement noted that despite the withdrawal of its national party status, the Left party will continue to work among the people with increased vigour and dedication across the country.

"At the same time, the CPI will intensify its campaign for comprehensive electoral reforms, including the system of proportional representation, abolition of electoral bonds and for state funding of elections, as recommended by the Indrajit Gupta Committee to ensure a level playing field to all participants.

"The CPI has the capacity and commitment to take up the challenges of time and overcome them," it added.

(With PTI inputs)