Palakkad: CPM Palakkad district secretary E N Suresh Babu stated that a similar election symbol used by an independent candidate was a key factor in the LDF's defeat in the Chittur assembly constituency. Addressing reporters, Babu explained that the necklace symbol of the independent candidate closely resembled the ring symbol of the LDF candidate, leading to confusion among voters and a possible split in votes. The LDF lost the Chittur seat to Janata Dal, with its candidate V Murugadas winning by a margin of 6,510 votes. Notably, an independent candidate with a similar name, Murugadas, who contested using the necklace symbol, secured 6,948 votes. According to Babu, the similarity in symbols may have diverted a significant portion of votes meant for the LDF candidate, contributing to the defeat.
Babu also alleged that the BJP indirectly supported the UDF in Kongad. He claimed there was a large-scale understanding between the BJP and Congress, with saffron party workers not being present in many booths. Meanwhile, Babu hailed the LDF's victory in Ottappalam as historic. Without naming him, Babu criticized former CPM leader P K Sasi, who contested as a UDF-backed independent candidate. After enjoying all the benefits of the party, he betrayed it, Babu said, adding that even Congress workers did not fully support him.
Babu further alleged a specific consolidation of Muslim votes in the Palakkad constituency. Groups like Jamaat-e-Islami were able to influence Muslim voters, which led to the LDF losing minority support, he said. The CPM leader also accused UDF workers of attempting to trigger unrest after the results. UDF workers tried to provoke LDF activists and create violence, he alleged, claiming firecrackers were thrown in front of the CPM office and the police facilitated it.
Describing the outcome of election results as a setback, Babu said the party would conduct a detailed review. We aimed to retain 10 seats in the district but lost three. However, we have managed to protect the core strength of the LDF in Palakkad, he added.
