Kerala MLA Stands Ground on Pala Constituency Amid Alliance Buzz
Pala MLA Mani C Kappan met with IUML national general secretary P K Kunhalikutty on Wednesday. The meeting took place at Kunhalikutty's residence in Karathode, Kozhikode. This development occurred amidst growing speculation about potential moves to bring the Kerala Congress (M) into the United Democratic Front fold.
Seat Adjustment Demands Firmly Rejected
Recent reports suggested that UDF leaders had sent feelers to Kappan. They proposed that he should consider a seat adjustment concerning the Pala constituency. This proposal was linked to the possibility of KC(M) joining the opposition front. Kappan addressed reporters after his meeting with Kunhalikutty. He made his position unequivocally clear.
"Vacating the Pala seat is completely out of the question," Kappan stated. He emphasized that the UDF should not demand such a move under any circumstances. The MLA confirmed that he had already conveyed this firm stance to opposition leader V D Satheesan. He also informed senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala of his decision.
Alternative Suggestions and Political Positioning
Reporters questioned Kappan about a potential shift to the Thiruvambadi seat. This constituency in Kozhikode is currently held by the IUML. Kappan responded with a counter-suggestion. He proposed that the Thiruvambadi seat could instead be offered to the Kerala Congress (M) if they joined the alliance.
The MLA made a pointed remark regarding KC(M) leader Jose K. Mani. "Whoever wants to contest from Pala can contest from there," Kappan said. This statement underscored his unwavering commitment to his own constituency.
IUML Leader Clarifies Meeting Agenda
P K Kunhalikutty also spoke to the media after the discussion. He acknowledged that the meeting touched upon recent media reports. However, he clarified that the conversation did not follow any specific, pre-set agenda.
"The UDF has made it clear that it is open to aligning with anyone with whom there is ideological compatibility," Kunhalikutty explained. He noted that this statement was made in a broad, general sense rather than targeting any particular party.
Formal Talks Yet to Materialize
When pressed about reports of talks with the Kerala Congress (M), Kunhalikutty provided further clarification. He stated that formal discussions could not proceed with a party currently in the rival front. Such talks would require the consent of that party, which has not been given.
"No formal talks have been held. We only stated our policy," the IUML leader affirmed. He observed a growing political trend. Several parties are reportedly gravitating towards the UDF. This shift is driven by a perception that the front could potentially return to power in the state. Kunhalikutty added that multiple parties are indeed changing their stance and showing renewed interest in the opposition coalition.
