Agartala, Nov 13 — The principal opposition CPI(M) will begin its annual membership scrutiny drive from January 2026, party insiders told *Tripura Times*. The exercise, held every year, aims to assess the activities, commitment, and discipline of party members. Based on the review, memberships are either renewed or placed on hold pending explanation.
“It is a standard custom of the party,” a senior leader said. “During the scrutiny, a member’s year-long activities are examined. If found active and responsible, the membership is renewed; otherwise, a notice is issued seeking clarification.”
According to party sources, all branch offices maintain detailed records of each member’s participation — including attendance at public meetings, internal discussions, and assigned duties. “If a member fulfills all the set criteria, renewal is automatic,” the leader added.
The CPI(M)’s membership has seen a sharp decline since it lost power in 2018. “The party had its highest membership in 2017, around 97,000. Now, the total stands close to 37,000,” said a source.
The CPI(M)’s membership process is also more structured than most political parties. Individuals seeking to join are first discussed at the branch committee level. Once approved, they are inducted as *Auxiliary Members*. After a certain period of participation, they become *Casual Members*, who can attend party meetings but cannot voice opinions. Only after successfully completing this phase do they qualify as *Permanent Members*.
“It takes roughly three years for an Auxiliary Member to become a Permanent Member,” the source added.
Party insiders believe the upcoming scrutiny drive will help rejuvenate the organisation and ensure that only dedicated members continue to represent the CPI(M)’s ideological and organisational principles.
