Change in high command stance? K Sudhakaran all set to file nomination paper to contest in Kannur

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Congress leader and MP K Sudhakaran is likely to file nomination papers to contest from Kannur. Sudhakaran has sought a no-obligation certificate from Kerala House. It is reported that he has been permitted by the high command to contest from the Kannur assembly constituency.

Sudhakaran supporters took to the streets in Kannur the other day, demanding that their leader be given a seat. Pro-Sudhakaran flex boards have also been installed in Peravoor, the constituency of KPCC president Sunny Joseph.

K Sudhakaran was denied a seat after the Congress high command took a strong stand that MPs should not contest the assembly elections. The Congress is planning to announce the final list of candidates at a screening committee meeting and a central election committee meeting this morning. The Congress announced its first list of candidates yesterday, excluding Kannur and Konni, where a decision has not yet been reached.

Meanwhile, leaders, including KC Venugopal, attempted to pacify Sudhakaran. The two are reported to have spoken last night. It is reported that senior leaders have requested Sudhakaran not to take any drastic decisions. MK Raghavan has reached Sudhakaran's flat this morning to meet him. However, it is not clear whether this is to persuade or to express solidarity.