Former CPI State deputy secretary C. Mahendran, who joined the ruling TVK on Thursday, has justified his decision by contending that Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay echoes “the desire of ordinary people to eradicate corruption”.

“Politics in the 21st century is entirely different. Traditional political party structures have begun to break down. This election has made it clear that practices such as fielding candidates based on caste will no longer work. The younger generation has begun to realise the damaging impact of corruption. They desire a radical change. Mr Vijay puts forth that very change. He echoes the sentiments of the ordinary people. So, I decided to join the party,” he told The Hindu on Friday.

“I have no major grievances against the Left parties. However, organisationally, I do have some dissatisfaction. I do not wish to discuss them in the public domain,” he said.

Disciplinary action

Meanwhile, CPI State secretary M. Veerapandian, in a statement, pointed out that the party had initiated disciplinary action against Mr. Mahendran.

“Certain individuals had prepared fraudulent documents to take over a publishing house, which was established by the party’s early leaders, through dishonest means. C. Mahendran acted in support of them. So, the party initiated disciplinary action against him,” the statement read.