The Communist Party of India-Marxist will be infused with young blood soon. The hottest issue at the 18th CPM party congress, which began in the capital on April 6, is the induction of a younger set of leaders into the party brass.
However, the congress, which will go on till April 11, promises to be significant for a number of reasons.
One, it is the first time the party will be holding its congress in the capital; two, the conclave will discuss why and how the party should continue to support the Congress-led government at the centre; and third, a change of guard.
Senior CPM leader Jyoti Basu with Harkishen Singh Surjeet at the opening of the 18th party congress.
Photograph: Sondeep Shankar/ Saab Press