Thodupuzha: Despite the United Democratic Front (UDF) winning all five assembly seats in Idukki district, the high-range region has been left disappointed as it failed to secure representation in the V D Satheesan-led ministry. However, in a consolation move, P J Joseph's son Apu John Joseph of the Kerala Congress (J) is set to be appointed as the government chief whip.
UDF's Sweep in Idukki
In the 2021 elections, the UDF had managed to win only the Thodupuzha seat in the district. This time, the coalition swept all five constituencies in Idukki, marking a significant turnaround. In the first Pinarayi Vijayan government, M M Mani represented the district in the cabinet, while Roshy Augustine served as a minister in the second Pinarayi government.
Ministerial Hopes Dashed
The district's ministerial hopes were centered around KPCC vice-president Roy K Paulose, who won from Idukki, and KC(J) state coordinator Apu John Joseph, who represented Thodupuzha. The Congress party won both the Idukki and Ettumanoor seats that the Kerala Congress (J) had given up. It is learned that the UDF leadership had promised P J Joseph two ministerial berths after KC(J) agreed to relinquish two of its 10 seats to Congress. Contesting in eight seats, KC(J) emerged victorious in seven, with the only loss in Kanhangad.
Cabinet Berth for Mons Joseph
Within the Kerala Congress (J), only Kaduthuruthy MLA-elect Mons Joseph secured a cabinet berth. Although P J Joseph made last-minute efforts to secure a ministerial position for his son Apu, a compromise was eventually reached, with Apu being appointed as the chief whip. This is the first time since 1991 that Congress candidates have been elected from Idukki. The winning Congress candidates include Roy K Paulose (Idukki), Syriac Thomas (Peermade), F Raja (Devikulam), and Senapathy Venu (Udumbanchola).
Historical Context
Since the formation of Idukki district in 1972, several Congress functionaries, including Jose Kuttiyani, K K Thomas, A K Mani, E M Augusthy, and Rosamma Chacko, have served as MLAs. However, the district has never had a Congress minister. DCC president C P Mathew had publicly raised this issue earlier, highlighting the longstanding grievance.
P J Joseph's Legacy
P J Joseph, who represented Thodupuzha ten times in the assembly, has served as a minister on seven occasions. His son Apu's appointment as chief whip is seen as a strategic move to maintain influence within the coalition while acknowledging the district's aspirations.
