The vibrant city of Madurai was awash with the color red as the Communist Party of India (Marxist) hosted its 24th Party Congress, concluding on a dynamic note with the Red Volunteer March. Thousands of participants, spanning various age groups and hailing from diverse regions, converged on the city’s ring road. Dressed in distinctive red shirts and khaki pants, complemented by khaki caps, the volunteers embarked on a spirited parade from the ELCOT area near Pandi Kovil to Mastanpatti, the setting for the party’s public meeting. This symbolic march not only energized the concluding day of the congress but also underscored the deep-seated commitment within the CPI(M) to honor its historical and ideological roots.
The procession, which saw enthusiastic participation from CPI(M) cadres, was flagged off by the Vachathi ‘poralis’, a group of about 30 party functionaries renowned in the community. As the volunteers traversed the planned route, they proudly bore party flags, banners, and posters that paid homage to historical figures and martyrs significant to India’s freedom movement and labor struggles. The rally wasn’t just a sight to behold but a stirring tribute, with participants organized into battalions named after party martyrs like Leelavathi, ‘Tyagi’ Balu, N. Sankaraiah, and others. The air was filled with resonant slogans of “Inquilab Zindabad” and “Veera Vanakam”, as steadfast affirmations of the party’s enduring values and homage to its esteemed leaders.
This four-day conclave, inaugurated on April 2, offered much more than formal discussions. It was heralded by the hoisting of the party flag by veteran leader Biman Basu, in a ceremony imbued with historical significance as the flag was symbolically brought from Keezhvenmani, a site of historical martyrdom. The congress featured a lively array of cultural programs and exhibits at the Tamukkam Convention Hall, engaging delegates and citizens alike. A life-sized statue of Karl Marx quickly became a focal point for attendees, capturing the essence of the event in photos and selfies.
The inaugural day was notably animated by the arrival of martyrs’ memorial torches carried from five significant sites across Tamil Nadu—acknowledging the profound sacrifices of ‘Thozhar Singaravelar’, ‘Salem sirai tyagigal’, ‘Kovai Chinniyampalayam tyagigal’, ‘Manavar tyagigal Somu Sembu’, and ‘Madurai tyagigal’. These symbols of homage were complemented by exhibitions showcasing the party’s historical journey, the pivotal role of women in the Communist movement, and important archaeological discoveries at sites like Keeladi. A photo exhibit aimed at countering fascism further enriched the profound ideological discourse of the event.
This ceremonial display of unity and ideological reverence at the CPI(M)’s party congress not only reinforced the party’s foundational principles but also garnered significant engagement, both within the party ranks and from the general public. As the participants dispersed, the overarching sentiment of pride in collective heritage and invigorated commitment to future endeavors lingered compellingly over Madurai, a city vibrant with political and historical significance.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/red-volunteers-take-out-march-on-concluding-day-of-cpims-24th-party-congress-in-madurai/article69420512.ece
Category : Madurai
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-04-06 21:16:00
