Defections and Disputes Shake Congress, Muslim League and BJP Ahead of Local Body Election

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala’s local body election preparations have been marked by growing unrest within the Congress, Muslim League, and BJP, as disputes over seat allocation continue to trigger resignations, defections, and open protests. The three parties are facing internal strain, with workers expressing dissatisfaction over candidate selection and representation.

BJP Workers Greet New Entrant Akhil Omanakuttan

In Pathanamthitta, Youth Congress state secretary Akhil Omanakuttan resigned from the Congress and joined the BJP, alleging that he had been sidelined during the election process. His departure adds to a series of resignations within the district, leaving the UDF unable to complete its candidate list for key institutions, including the district panchayat. A Congress core committee meeting held on Tuesday also ended without a decision, reflecting ongoing internal disagreements.

Screen Grab of Congress Workers’ Clash in Pirayiri

In Palakkad, factional issues resurfaced when Congress workers in Pirayiri clashed over the choice of a local body candidate. One group supported former councillor Preeth Suresh, while another, led by ward member Shivaprasad, opposed the nomination. The dispute escalated into a physical confrontation, signalling deepening divisions within the party.

Panakkad Sadiq Ali Thangal

The Muslim League has also raised concerns over seat allocation. Panakkad Sadiq Ali Thangal stated that the party has not been given adequate representation in the seat-sharing arrangement and insisted that it should receive more constituencies, particularly in southern Kerala. League workers have also voiced dissatisfaction, prompting further discussions within the UDF.

Baby Kumar

Meanwhile, crossovers between parties have contributed to the tension. In Parassala, the Congress selected Baby Kumar, an RSS worker for nearly 25 years, as its UDF candidate. This decision led to protests from local Congress workers, especially after images of him in RSS uniform resurfaced on social media. He continues to campaign actively, even as criticism persists.

Umar Farooq

In Kannur, Muslim League municipal councillor Umar Farooq left the party and joined the BJP. Indications suggest he may contest as the BJP candidate from Ward 18 of the Panur municipality. His exit comes at a time when the UDF in Kannur is already struggling to finalise candidates for nearly half the local bodies.