Is Anvar Leaving the Political Scene After Rejecting UDF?
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Synopsis
P.V. Anvar, a notable figure in Nilambur politics, has decided against joining the UDF and will abstain from the upcoming bypolls. His resignation earlier this year adds another layer to the political dynamics as Congress and CPI(M) gear up for a crucial contest in a historically significant constituency.
Key Takeaways
- P.V. Anvar will not contest the upcoming Nilambur bypoll.
- The UDF has not accommodated Anvar, leading to his withdrawal.
- The election is scheduled for June 19.
- Congress is focusing on reclaiming its stronghold in Nilambur through a vigorous campaign.
- The rivalry between Congress and CPI(M) is intensifying in the constituency.
Malappuram, May 31 (NationPress) P.V. Anvar, a two-time MLA from Nilambur, has made headlines once again as he declared on Saturday that he will not be joining the V.D. Satheesan-led UDF nor participating in the forthcoming bypolls. This decision comes in the wake of his resignation from the Assembly in January, which followed a dispute with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
The Nilambur Assembly constituency is poised for elections on June 19, where a new representative will be chosen.
Previously elected in 2016 and 2021 as an Independent candidate with Left support, Anvar had aspirations to join the Congress-led UDF through the All India Trinamool Congress. However, with no definitive response forthcoming from the coalition, he has now expressed his intention to withdraw from the electoral race.
"My resignation was aimed at challenging Vijayan politically. I anticipated that my party would find a place in the UDF as an associate member. Despite my persistent efforts, there’s been no clarity. I want to emphasize—I will not be a part of the upcoming elections and do not wish to be included in the Satheesan-led UDF," Anvar shared with the press.
He further elaborated on his situation, stating, "I find myself in a financial bind. Although I had the desire to contest, the lack of funds prevents me from doing so. I will remain active around Nilambur, but I will not run for office."
With Anvar's withdrawal, attention shifts to the contest between Congress candidate Aryadan Shoukath and CPI(M) state secretariat member M. Swaraj.
Nilambur has historically been a bastion for Congress, with Shoukath’s father, Aryadan Mohammed, securing the seat eight times since 1965 and losing only thrice. The last time CPI(M) fielded a candidate in Nilambur was in 2006, when P. Sreeramakrishnan was defeated by Mohammed by over 18,000 votes.
On the same day, Swaraj received a warm welcome from CPI(M) supporters upon his arrival at the local railway station. Both he and Shoukath hail from Malappuram district.
Shoukath is expected to file his nomination soon, having sought blessings from A.K. Antony, a close ally of his father.
Determined to regain Nilambur following consecutive defeats to Anvar, Congress is gearing up for a vigorous campaign spearheaded by Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi, who had a significant lead of over 65,000 votes from Nilambur in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Meanwhile, UDF convenor Adoor Prakash and State Congress president Sunny Joseph affirmed that discussions with Anvar are still ongoing.
"Just wait — our negotiations will proceed," Prakash stated.
Point of View
I observe that P.V. Anvar's decision to withdraw from the UDF and the upcoming bypoll raises significant questions about the shifting allegiances within Kerala's political landscape. His financial constraints and lack of support from the UDF reflect broader challenges faced by independent candidates in the current political climate. The focus now shifts to the intense rivalry between Congress and CPI(M) as they vie for control in a historically significant constituency.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did P.V. Anvar resign from the Assembly?
P.V. Anvar resigned from the Assembly due to a fallout with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, intending to challenge him politically.
What are Anvar's plans regarding the upcoming bypoll?
Anvar has announced that he will not participate in the upcoming bypoll and will not join the V.D. Satheesan-led UDF.
Who are the main candidates in the Nilambur bypoll?
The main candidates in the Nilambur bypoll are Congress's Aryadan Shoukath and CPI(M)'s M. Swaraj.
What is the historical significance of the Nilambur constituency for Congress?
Nilambur has traditionally been a stronghold for Congress, with Aryadan Mohammed winning the seat multiple times since 1965.
What challenges does Congress face in the upcoming election?
Congress faces the challenge of reclaiming Nilambur after back-to-back defeats and must mount a strong campaign to regain voter trust.
