Congress, BJP entangled in Sudhakaran’s remarks; CPM makes use of opportunity

ALAPPUZHA: The Congress and BJP have been entangled in the revelation of UDF independent candidate G Sudhakaran in Ambalappuzha that he expects to receive 5,000 BJP votes. He made this remark at the convention inaugurated by AICC General Secretary K C Venugopal.

However, the BJP has responded with ridicule. BJP North district secretary P K Binoy said Sudhakaran’s claims are empty shots, while BJP central zone president N Hari described it as nothing more than a daydream. With the BJP aiming to surpass its previous tally of 22,389 votes, Sudhakaran’s statement has become a matter of concern.

At a time when the Congress is campaigning that there is a secret understanding between the CPM and BJP in the state, such remarks from a candidate backed by them indicating expectations of BJP votes have created a major headache for the party. Although Sudhakaran later clarified that he was referring not to RSS members but to ordinary BJP workers who might vote based on his personal influence, the controversy has not subsided.

Sudhakaran stated that voters who make decisions based on individual merit exist in all parties, and that he is expecting such votes. Meantime, the sitting MLA H. Salam has highlighted Sudhakaran’s remarks as evidence of a UDF-BJP nexus.

In the electoral history of the Ambalappuzha constituency, the highest majority recorded so far is in Sudhakaran’s name. His 2011 record of 63,728 votes still remains unbeaten. This time, he is aiming for around 90,000 votes.