Kerala's Left Coalition Fractures Over PM SHRI Agreement as CPI Accuses CPM of Breaking Ranks

A significant political controversy has erupted within Kerala's ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) following Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's government signing a memorandum of understanding for the Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) scheme.

The PM SHRI initiative aims to transform state-run schools, alongside Kendriya Vidyalayas and Navodaya Vidyalayas, into model educational institutions across India. The program is designed to develop students into engaged citizens who contribute to an equitable, inclusive society as outlined in the National Education Policy 2020.

CPI state secretary Binoy Viswam has strongly criticized the decision, alleging a "serious conspiracy" behind the agreement. He accused Education Minister V Sivankutty of making a unilateral decision without proper consultation, suggesting this move effectively endorses the NEP, which the Left has opposed.

In a sharply worded communication to CPI general secretary D Raja, Viswam claimed the CPM had violated coalition protocols. He emphasized that "The Education Minister decided this single-handedly" and urged national leadership to address the issue seriously, arguing that signing the agreement has undermined the LDF's opposition to central policies.

Reports indicate CPI may consider strong responses, potentially including boycotting Cabinet meetings or reducing their support to "outside support" only. The party's secretariat will make final decisions today, with CPM state secretary MV Govindan expected to hold discussions with Viswam beforehand.

BJP state president K Surendran has dismissed CPI's objections as inconsequential, stating, "Kerala has finally signed PM SHRI. Better late than never." He predicted that despite initial resistance, the state would eventually implement all central government initiatives including NEP and CAA.

The opposition has attempted to capitalize on these divisions, with United Democratic Front convener Adoor Prakash inviting CPI to join the Congress-led coalition. "CPI and other parties are welcome to the UDF. If Binoy Viswam is ready, I am willing to meet him," Prakash stated, while clarifying no formal discussions had yet taken place.

Indian Union Muslim League leader PK Kunhalikutty joined the criticism, describing the government's decision as deeply concerning. He characterized the PM SHRI agreement as "a very serious matter" involving "a curriculum shaped by the RSS agenda." Kunhalikutty rejected claims that the agreement was merely about funding, noting that secular states like Tamil Nadu have opposed the NEP for promoting what he called "dangerous visions" of history.