CPI MLA C. C. Mukundan Resigns to Contest on BJP Ticket

Key Takeaways

Mukundan resigns from CPI to join BJP.

Secured BJP nomination for Nattika constituency.

His local ties may attract traditional CPI voters.

BJP's vote share in Nattika was around 22% in 2021.

Internal tensions within CPI led to Mukundan's departure.

Thrissur (Kerala), March 17 (NationPress) C. C. Mukundan, an MLA from the CPI, has officially resigned from the Assembly as he transitions to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This move follows his departure from the Communist Party of India last week, after which he secured the BJP's nomination to contest in the upcoming Assembly elections from Nattika on April 9.

Shortly after disclosing his decision to leave the CPI, Mukundan visited the local BJP office in Thrissur, where his formal induction took place.

Known for his calm demeanor and unpretentious approach, Mukundan is anticipated to attract a segment of traditional CPI supporters, thereby boosting the BJP's confidence in the region.

Party officials are optimistic that Mukundan's established local ties and personal integrity might convert into valuable votes. His image underwent a transformation last year when his personal struggles became public; he faced significant challenges, including living in a dilapidated house and dealing with financial burdens following his daughter's wedding.

His hardships became evident after he suffered an injury at home, leading to the circulation of a viral image showcasing his modest living conditions.

The BJP's optimism is further supported by its consistent increase in vote share within Nattika over the years.

In the 2021 Assembly elections, the party garnered nearly 22% of the votes.

With Mukundan now part of its ranks, expectations have escalated significantly among party supporters.

Mukundan's exit from the CPI was prompted by internal conflicts, particularly after the party leadership nominated former MLA Geetha Gopi as its candidate for the constituency, effectively replacing him.

He publicly criticized this decision, claiming that the nomination was a 'payment seat' and suggested that he was pushed aside due to his inability to generate the expected funds for the party.

After his departure, Mukundan engaged in talks with Congress leaders, but no consensus was reached, resulting in Congress opting to field its own candidate in the constituency.

With Mukundan's inclusion, the BJP aims to leverage its expanding voter base to pose a more formidable electoral challenge in Nattika, setting the stage for what promises to be a closely monitored contest.

Point of View

Mukundan's resignation and switch to the BJP reflects ongoing shifts in political alliances within Kerala. His local credibility could significantly impact the BJP's electoral prospects in Nattika, making this a noteworthy development in the state's political landscape.

NationPress

8 May 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did C. C. Mukundan resign from the CPI?

C. C. Mukundan resigned from the CPI following internal tensions and after being replaced as the candidate for Nattika by the party leadership.

What are the implications of Mukundan joining the BJP?

Mukundan's entrance into the BJP is expected to attract traditional CPI supporters, potentially strengthening the BJP's position in the Nattika constituency.

How did Mukundan's personal struggles affect his political image?

Mukundan's personal hardships, including financial difficulties and modest living conditions, have enhanced his image as a relatable and authentic candidate.

What percentage of votes did the BJP receive in the last elections in Nattika?

In the 2021 Assembly elections, the BJP secured nearly 22% of the votes in the Nattika constituency.

What was Mukundan's response to being replaced as the CPI candidate?

Mukundan openly criticized the decision, labeling it a 'payment seat' and suggesting that he was sidelined due to his inability to generate expected funds.