“Obviously, Rahul’s presence in the House will take the sting out of UDF attempts to corner the LDF government over key issues like police atrocities. Now the focus has shifted to Rahul. In short, his visit to the assembly today will only help the CPM. That’s why Satheesan was not keen on him attending the session,” said sources.

Muraleedharan launched a scathing attack on the cyber attacks against senior leaders, including Satheesan. A five-member team led by Balram, and comprising M Liju, Deepthi Mary Varghese, Pazhakulam Madhu and P M Niyas, has been formed to come up with a report on cyber bullying. The team will also probe whether party digital media cell played any role in the cyber attacks.

Though Satheesan stood more or less isolated in the party, Rahul’s assembly visit drew criticism from the opposite camp too. “When action was taken (against Rahul), none of the senior leaders opposed. How can they back Rahul now? When it comes to such issues the KPCC president seems more or less ineffective, while the three working presidents run the show,” said a leader, on condition of anonymity.

Meanwhile, sources said Rahul attended the session with the silent nod from a few leaders. He is making a calculated move to win back his previous position in the party. Though he tried to meet AICC general secretary in-charge of the state Deepa Dasmunshi, the latter turned down the request. It’s not clear whether Rahul will continue to attend the assembly.