Tribal Leader C K Janu Sets Sights on Mananthavady ST Seat
Tribal leader C K Janu has expressed strong interest in contesting from the Mananthavady ST reserved constituency in Wayanad for the upcoming assembly election. This development comes shortly after her political party, the Janadhipathiya Rashtreeya Party (JRP), gained induction into the United Democratic Front (UDF) as an associate member.
Political Journey and Alliance Shift
Janu made a significant political move last year by exiting the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in August. She cited allegations that her party did not receive due consideration within the alliance. She pointed out that while other parties like the BDJS received proper space and recognition, the JRP felt sidelined. Following this exit, the JRP formally joined the UDF in December, marking a new chapter in its political trajectory.
"The party is keen to contest this time," Janu stated emphatically. "JRP and Adivasi Gotra Maha Sabha have significant influence in the constituency. We should therefore be considered for the seat." Her confidence stems from the party's grassroots connection and tribal support base in the region.
Previous Electoral Experience and Current Dynamics
Janu brings prior electoral experience to the table, having contested twice from the Sulthan Bathery constituency. On both occasions, she finished in third place, demonstrating her persistent political engagement. The Mananthavady constituency presents a different landscape, where Congress candidate and former minister P K Jayalakshmi lost to CPM's O R Kelu in the last two assembly elections.
However, recent political developments have shifted the dynamics. The UDF's strong performance in the recent local body polls has injected fresh confidence into the front. They managed to retain the Mananthavady municipality and wrest control of Thondernad, Vellamunda, and Panamaram panchayats from the LDF. This success has bolstered their belief in mounting a robust challenge in the upcoming assembly election.
Community Demands for Representation
Amid these political maneuvers, several tribal organizations have raised a crucial demand. They insist that political parties field a candidate from the Paniya community, which represents the largest tribal group in the district. Leaders from various communities including Paniya, Adiya, Kattunayikka, Oorali, and Vettukumura voiced this concern at a recent news conference.
They highlighted a significant gap in representation, noting that despite the Paniya population in the district being approximately one lakh, major political fronts have consistently failed to provide them with adequate political representation. The news conference saw participation from prominent figures such as Adivasi Vanitha Prasthanam president Amini K Wayanad, along with other leaders including Devaki Mananthavady, Kamala C M, and Saji Begur.
This demand adds another layer to the electoral narrative, emphasizing the need for inclusive politics that truly reflects the district's demographic composition. As the assembly election approaches, all eyes remain on how political alliances will navigate these complex community aspirations while strategizing their candidate selections.
