Kerala MLA Stands Firm on Pala Seat as UDF Explores Alliance with KC(M)
In Kozhikode, political circles buzzed with activity on Wednesday. Pala MLA Mani C Kappan held a meeting with IUML national general secretary P K Kunhalikutty. The meeting took place at Kunhalikutty's residence in Karathode.
Seat Adjustment Talks Hit a Wall
This discussion occurred against a backdrop of intense speculation. Reports suggested that UDF leaders had approached Kappan. They proposed a potential seat adjustment for the Pala constituency. This move would facilitate the Kerala Congress (M) joining the UDF front.
However, Kappan emerged from the meeting with a clear and unwavering stance. He addressed reporters directly after the talks. "Vacating the Pala seat is completely out of the question," he stated firmly. The MLA emphasized that the UDF should not make such a demand under any circumstances.
He confirmed that he had already communicated this position to key opposition figures. These included opposition leader V D Satheesan and senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala.
Alternative Proposals and Political Posturing
When questioned about other possibilities, Kappan offered an alternative. Reporters asked if he would consider moving to the Thiruvambadi seat in Kozhikode. This seat is currently held by the IUML.
Kappan responded by suggesting that seat could instead be offered to the KC(M) party. He made a pointed remark about KC(M) leader Jose K. Mani. "Whoever wants to contest from Pala can contest from there," he said, leaving little room for negotiation on his home turf.
IUML Leader Downplays Specific Agenda
On the other side of the table, P K Kunhalikutty provided his perspective on the meeting. He acknowledged that the conversation touched upon recent media reports. However, he was quick to clarify the nature of the discussion.
"The meeting did not have any specific agenda," Kunhalikutty told the press. He explained that the UDF has a broad policy of openness. The front is willing to align with any party that shares its ideological vision. But he stressed this was a general statement, not a targeted proposal.
No Formal Talks with KC(M) Yet, Says Kunhalikutty
Addressing the swirling rumors of alliance talks, Kunhalikutty set the record straight. He stated that formal discussions cannot proceed without consent. The KC(M) is currently part of the rival LDF front. Engaging in talks without their official agreement would be inappropriate.
"No formal talks have been held. We only stated our policy," he reiterated. The IUML leader did note an interesting political trend. He observed a growing perception that the UDF could return to power in the state. This perception is causing several parties to reconsider their stance towards the front.
Kunhalikutty highlighted this shift in political dynamics. Parties are increasingly gravitating towards the UDF, he suggested. This movement is driven by calculations about future electoral success and power equations in Kerala.
The meeting between Kappan and Kunhalikutty, therefore, served as a focal point. It highlighted the ongoing realignments and tough negotiations within Kerala's complex political landscape. While doors remain open for new alliances, local leaders like Kappan are drawing clear red lines to protect their constituencies.
