CPI Vows to Resist Any Move to Dilute Kerala's Land Reforms

Communist Party of India (CPI) national secretariat member K. Prakash Babu has issued a firm warning against any attempt to undermine the fundamental nature of Kerala's landmark land reforms. Speaking at a national seminar organised by the Achutha Menon Foundation, he asserted that any effort to alter the basic character of these reforms would be met with strong opposition and defeated.

The reforms, implemented under the government led by the late C. Achutha Menon, are credited with bringing about transformative changes in the state's political and social fabric. Babu's remarks come in the context of the current United Democratic Front (UDF) government, led by V.D. Satheesan, which has spoken of a second round of land reforms.

Babu cautioned that if such reforms were pursued to subvert the existing framework and concentrate wealth in the hands of a few, under the guise of industrial needs, they would not be permitted. He drew a parallel with the actions of the BJP government in Gujarat, which he said had evacuated two villages for industrial purposes.

However, the CPI leader clarified that the party is not opposed to all changes. He expressed support for amending the existing land ceiling laws, provided the objective is the distribution of land to the landless poor.

Adding to the discussion, eminent social scientist K.P. Kannan stated that Kerala's future development hinges on fostering a new political culture that prioritises gender justice, social justice, and democratic values.