Left Loses Power in Kerala, Out of Government in All States Since 1977

The Communist Party of India (Marxist)-led Left alliance has lost power in Kerala after its defeat in the 2026 Assembly elections, marking the first time since 1977 that the party holds no state government in India. The result ends the CPI(M)'s 10-year tenure in Kerala and intensifies scrutiny over its national relevance and political strategy.
The Congress, which led the opposition campaign, accused the CPI(M) of aligning with the BJP, with Lok Sabha Leader Rahul Gandhi labeling the party the 'Communist Janata Party.' The charge targeted the Left's stance on national issues and sought to erode its anti-BJP credentials among opposition voters.
CPI(M) General Secretary M.A. Baby dismissed the allegations as 'deliberate' and 'distorted,' asserting the party remained committed to socially excluded groups across caste and religion. He urged party cadres to regroup and rebuild in the face of the electoral setback.
The party will assess its performance in a central committee meeting next week, as analysts watch for shifts in its alliance posture ahead of upcoming national elections.