TIRUCHY: The century-old Communist Party of India (CPI) is capable of seeking at least 30 to 40 seats from the DMK-led alliance in the upcoming Assembly elections, state secretary M Veerapandian said here on Friday.

Speaking to reporters, Veerapandian said the party’s long political legacy and consistent role in public struggles should not be judged merely by its current strength of two MPs. “Ours is a 100-year-old party. We are not a small political force,” he said, adding that CPI cadre would work decisively for the alliance’s victory.

Veerapandian accused the Union government of waging a “war against the poor” by weakening welfare schemes, particularly MGNREGS. While welcoming the assurance of 100 days of employment, he expressed concern over delayed fund releases and wage disbursal. “Wages must be paid immediately after work is completed. The Centre should plan its finances accordingly,” he said.

The CPI leader said forces that split people on the basis of caste and religion alone deserved to be termed ‘theeya sakthi’ (evil forces), in an apparent response to TVK chief's remarks at the ruling DMK. He asserted that the CPI would never allow the DMK to be branded as such, stating that the ruling party believed in democracy and governance.

Veerapandian also criticised actor-politician Vijay, saying people had expected a fresh political approach after he launched his party, but were left disappointed.

Referring to the CPI’s centenary celebrations, Veerapandian said the year-long events would culminate on February 7 at Valluvar Kottam in Chennai, where Chief Minister MK Stalin is scheduled to address the party cadre.