CPI not keen to woo tainted' K M Mani

Thiruvananthapuram: While the LDF is yet to make up its mind on Kerala Congress (M) which has almost decided to part ways with UDF, the CPI is not quite keen to have a tie up with K M Mani who had faced a serious allegations in bar bribe case. Though Mani was exonerated by Vigilance and Anti Corruption Bureau in bar bribe case, the clean chit given by the investigating agency has been challenged before the vigilance court. The case is coming up for hearing on Aug 16.

When contacted, LDF convenor Vaikom Viswam said it was too early to say anything on the Mani issue. “Many developments are unfolding in that party. We don’t know what will emerge out of these developments. We have not even discussed these issues on our platform,” said LDF convenor Vaikom Viswan. On the other hand, CPI has serious reservations against anyone bargaining with LDF for a berth in the ruling front.

“Our front is based on concrete policies. There is no need for any expansion at this stage as the LDF is going from strength to strength. We are seriously engaged in implementing the promises made in our manifesto to meet the demands of various sections of society,” said CPI secretary Kanam Rajendran. He reminded that LDF secured massive mandate for its principled stand on the issue of corruption just two and a half months ago. “There will be no compromise on the issue of corruption and the LDF is firm on that,” he added.

Left sympathisers say it would be suicidal if the LDF tied up with Mani. LDF had launched a sustained agitation against Mani for more than two years and it was because of its stand on corruption, the people rallied behind the front in huge numbers. Sources in the Left are not completely ruling out the possibility of talks with Mani. But they say such a situation would emerge only if he is acquitted of all charges of corruption.