Who is BJP's Candidate for Nilambur Bypoll Amid Political Tension?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Mohan George is the BJP's candidate for Nilambur.
- Competition includes candidates from LDF and UDF.
- The election takes place on June 19.
- Key political players are focusing on this bypoll as a significant test.
- All nominations must be submitted by June 2.
Thiruvananthapuram, June 1 (NationPress) In a crucial and last-minute decision, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has declared Advocate Mohan George as its candidate for the forthcoming Nilambur by-election in Kerala.
George, an experienced political figure and previous state secretary of the Kerala Congress, combines both legal prowess and community political engagement for this contest.
This development follows the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) naming CPI(M) youth leader M. Swaraj as their nominee, while the United Democratic Front (UDF) has put forth Congress leader Aryadan Shoukath as their candidate.
The BJP's announcement comes after internal deliberations and prior uncertainty.
State party president Rajeev Chandrasekhar had recently suggested that the BJP might not participate in the bypoll, a statement that garnered criticism from party members.
However, in a strategic shift, the party revealed its candidate just a day before the nomination deadline, showcasing a renewed commitment to strengthen its foothold in the politically pivotal Nilambur constituency.
Meanwhile, UDF candidate Aryadan Shoukath officially filed his nomination documents at the Nilambur Taluk Office on Saturday, supported by prominent coalition leaders like KPCC Working President A.P. Anil Kumar and Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) Rajya Sabha MP Abdul Wahab, highlighting the significance of this seat for the alliance.
Former Nilambur MLA and Trinamool Congress state convenor P. V. Anvar has also entered the electoral contest. Initially, he had mentioned financial issues and ruled himself out, but he has since received a non-liability certificate from the Kerala Legislative Assembly, suggesting he might still participate as an independent or a Trinamool Congress-backed candidate.
The Nilambur by-election, slated for June 19, is set to be a high-stakes and fiercely contested multi-cornered battle.
The last date for submitting nominations is June 2, with results expected to be announced on June 23.
This bypoll was necessitated by the resignation of the sitting MLA, and all major political factions are viewing this as an opportunity to assess their electoral standing following the Lok Sabha elections.
With prominent contenders now in the arena, Nilambur is poised to experience a closely monitored and intensely fought political showdown.