THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As election campaign reaches the final phase, LDF and UDF camps are witnessing unusual developments. Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) – the second biggest constituent in UDF –is taking efforts to minimize its presence outside its strongholds. Whereas CPI, the second biggest partner in LDF, is hell-bent on making its presence felt in constituencies where it holds very little political clout. Both parties seem to have valid reasons for their actions.
The unsavoury attack from CPM and BJP has prompted IUML to lie low. The accusations that IUML has emerged as the strongest political outfit, even capable of deciding who should be the CM candidate of Congress, has literally forced IUML and its mascot PK Kunhalikutty to keep away from the frontline political blitzkrieg.
Being aware of the impact the anti-IUML campaign by BJP and CPM could have on the Congress, IUML has chosen to be the shadow of Congress outside Malabar, for the time being. But the party did not take this tactical decision by giving up anything. It wanted to contest in 30 seats, but reached an agreement with 27 seats. The party that has presence in Malappuram and Kozhikode had contested in 24 seats in the previous assembly elections, winning 18 seats.
“They are concerned about the campaigns by political opponents and its possible impact on Congress, outside Malabar. They know Congress shouldn’t come under a shadow. But once back in power, I think they will start dictating terms as ever,” said political commentator Joseph C Mathew about IUML leaders keeping a low profile this time.
Allegations of Love Jihad and interpretations of IUML’s growing presence in UDF prompted Kunhalikutty and his men to call on Church leaders, one by one. It is learnt that church heads were apprised about the ‘hollowness’ of the anti-IUML campaigns. It assured that it would fight religious radicalism. Kunhalikutty’s repeated statements that IUML will not stake claim for deputy CM attests the low-key strategy of the party.
Meanwhile, CPI state secretary Kanam Rajendran who made abortive attempts to stonewall the entry of KC(M) to LDF, appears to be making repeated attempts to irritate Nair Service Society (NSS), which is unhappy with the government women-entry stand at Sabarimala. Rajendran’s attempt to irritate NSS over its stand on Sabarimala appears to be based on twin objectives. First, to deflect NSS ire on KC(M) candidates and smoothen CPI’s ‘true communist’ image.
CPI had to concede Kanjirappally and Changanassery seats to KC(M) despite CPI’s claim. It is argued that resentment of NSS against Left would be more detrimental to KC(M) in central Travancore than any other party. KC(M), which is now part of LDF, will contest in 12 seats.
“Kanam may be trying to rupture Nair community support that KC(M) used to enjoy. More than that, he would have felt CPM’s refusal to stick to its stand on Sabarimala women-entry issue as an opportunity to preen the real Communist image once again. Kanam knows that a large chunk of CPM men would find merit in what he says on Sabarimala,” said political observer NM Pearson. CPI is contesting in 25 seats this time, which is two less than last time.