Is There Trouble Brewing in Congress' Kerala Unit Over Nilambur Bypoll Candidate Selection?
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Synopsis
The Congress party in Kerala is facing internal strife regarding candidate selection for the Nilambur bypoll. With rivalries intensifying and leadership concerns rising, the situation is becoming increasingly complex as the election date approaches. Will the party resolve its differences in time for the vote?
Key Takeaways
- Internal strife within Congress over candidate selection.
- The election is set for June 19, raising urgency.
- P.V. Anvar is vocal about his dissatisfaction with the process.
- Possible implications for future elections in Kerala.
- Competition between party leaders is intensifying.
Malappuram (Kerala), May 26 (NationPress) Unrest has emerged within the Congress party's Kerala unit concerning the nomination of a candidate for the forthcoming Nilambur Assembly by-election. The Election Commission has scheduled the by-election for June 19, coinciding with elections in four additional seats across three other states.
This election became essential following the resignation of P.V. Anvar, a two-time Left-supported Independent legislator, who left his position in January after a significant disagreement with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. In typical Kerala political fashion, when leaders or parties sever ties with a traditional rival—whether the CPI-M-led Left or the Congress-led UDF—they often shift allegiance to the opposing side.
Anvar has shown interest in joining the Congress-led UDF, but despite being informed that the UDF would assess his candidacy at the right moment, he expressed frustration on Monday, indicating he did not resign simply to allow someone else to run and hinted at the possibility of entering the race himself.
Since leaving his legislative role, Anvar has been actively seeking entry into the UDF. However, the Congress leadership, particularly Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan, has shown reluctance, primarily due to Anvar's previous false allegations against Satheesan during an Assembly session last year.
Another source of Anvar's frustration is his strained relationship with the probable Congress candidate, Aryadan Shoukat, whom Anvar defeated in 2016.
Currently, Congress's Malappuram President V. S. Joy and Shoukat are the main contenders for the candidacy. With Anvar making his dissatisfaction known, Joy's supporters have cautioned that if he is overlooked, there could be serious consequences.
This turmoil surfaced shortly after the newly-appointed KPCC President, Sunny Joseph, announced that the party leadership would reveal the Congress candidate on Monday.
Meanwhile, the CPI-M-led Left leadership is closely monitoring the situation within the Congress, eager to see if they will replicate their strategy from the Palakkad Assembly by-election last November, where they nominated dissident Congress leader Dr. P. Sarin.
The BJP is also in a state of uncertainty, with its state President Rajeev Chandrasekhar stating that this election was an unnecessary burden, and they will soon determine their course of action.
Point of View
The situation within the Congress party's Kerala unit highlights the ongoing challenges of political unity and candidate selection. The internal disagreements, particularly with Anvar's potential candidacy, underscore the complexities of party dynamics in regional politics. As the party navigates these tumultuous waters, the outcome could significantly impact their standing in future elections.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the unrest in Congress' Kerala unit?
The unrest was sparked by the candidate selection process for the Nilambur by-election, especially following P.V. Anvar's resignation and his desire to join the Congress-led UDF.
When is the Nilambur Assembly by-election scheduled?
The Nilambur Assembly by-election is scheduled for June 19.
What concerns does Anvar have regarding his political future?
Anvar is concerned that the Congress leadership may not support his candidacy and has hinted at possibly running himself if he is overlooked.
Who are the main contenders for the Congress candidacy?
The main contenders for the Congress candidacy are V. S. Joy and Aryadan Shoukat.
How is the CPI-M-led Left party reacting to the situation?
The CPI-M-led Left party is closely observing the developments within Congress, anticipating potential opportunities for their own candidates.
