Tiruchy, Dec 20: The Communist Party of India (CPI) has declared its ambition to contest a substantial number of seats—potentially up to 40—in the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections as part of the DMK-led alliance. CPI State Secretary M. Veerapandian told reporters that the party’s century-long political legacy and active role in public struggles make it a significant force in state politics, despite holding only two MPs at present.Speaking here on Friday, Veerapandian emphasised that the CPI should not be judged solely by its current parliamentary strength, insisting that its cadre would work decisively to secure victory for the alliance in the 2026 polls. “Ours is a 100-year-old party. We are not a small political force,” he said, underscoring the party’s historical roots and ongoing grassroots involvement.
In his remarks, the CPI leader also criticised the Union government’s handling of welfare schemes, particularly the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS). While welcoming the assurance of 100 days of employment, he voiced concern over delayed fund releases and wage payments, urging immediate wage disbursal after completion of work. “Wages must be paid immediately after work is completed. The Centre should plan its finances accordingly,” Veerapandian said.
Veerapandian took a swipe at forces that divide people on the basis of caste and religion, labelling them “theeya sakthi” (evil forces), in an apparent response to remarks by TVK chief Vijay targeting the DMK. He asserted that the CPI would resist narratives that unfairly brand the ruling party, adding that the DMK believes in democratic governance.
The CPI leader also expressed disappointment with actor-politician Vijay’s new political venture, saying that public expectations for a fresh approach had not been met. He reiterated that the CPI’s focus remains on issues of workers and the underprivileged.
Veerapandian noted that the CPI’s centenary celebrations, marking 100 years of the party’s founding, will culminate on February 7 at Valluvar Kottam in Chennai, where Chief Minister M.K. Stalin is scheduled to address party workers.