Factionalism within the CPI(M) contributed to the party’s electoral defeats in Thrithala and Kongad, according to the organisational report presented at the party’s Palakkad district conference on Saturday.

District secretary E.N. Suresh Babu presented the report after CPI(M) State secretary M.V. Govindan inaugurated the conference at the district committee office.

The report said factionalism, along with the consolidation of minority votes, contributed to the defeat of M.B. Rajesh in Thrithala. In Kongad, the party lost a significant share of its traditional votes. The decline was also recorded in panchayats where the CPI(M) has a strong organisational base, the report said.

The report also alleged that some CPI(M) leaders were involved in illegal land deals in Attappady and called for the disclosure of leaders’ assets. It criticised what it described as the party’s growing links with real estate interests.

Mr. Govindan said differences among party leaders had contributed to the defeats in Thrithala, Kongad and some other constituencies. He also criticised the functioning of the district secretariat.

The general discussion on the report will continue on Sunday, followed by replies from the State and district leadership.

A public rally will be held at in the town on Sunday afteroon. Mr. Govindan will inaugurate the rally.