Constituency that CPM took over from its ally; these factors will decide fate in Thiruvananthapuram

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Thiruvananthapuram constituency is notable as it is named after the capital of Kerala. It is also the constituency where the Legislative Assembly building is located. The present constituency came into existence after the 2011 delimitation. Earlier, most parts of this area were included in the Thiruvananthapuram West constituency. The constituency includes several wards of the city corporation, and coastal votes play a crucial role here. After its formation, VS Sivakumar of the UDF won in both 2011 and 2016. In 2021, the LDF captured the seat through Antony Raju. However, th current situation is different. Antony Raju cannot contest due to disqualification, so the CPM-led LDF has fielded film actor Karamana Sudheer as an indpendent candidate.

In 2021, the LDF captured the seat through Antony Raju. However, the current situation is different. Since Antony Raju cannot contest due to disqualification, the CPM took over the seat and fielded film actor Karamana Sudheer as LDF independent candidate. The UDF, which had earlier won the seat twice through the Congrss, has now allotted it to its ally CMP. CP John is the UDF candidate. BJP leader Karamana Jayan is contesting for the NDA.

While the LDF campaigned by highlighting the development projects of the Pinarayi government, the UDF focused on anti-incumbency, corruption, and issues like the Sabarimala gold theft case. The BJP campaigned with the aim of implementing the welfare schemes of th Modi government in Thiruvananthapuram.

However, community undercurrents are expected to play a key role in deciding the outcome. While Nair and Ezhava votes are dominant in urban areas, minority votes are crucial. In particular, the support of the Latin Catholic community is considered very important in this constituency. Voters in the constituency also share mixed opinions. A pharmacist named Kulathoor Ram says that CP John has an edge and predicts BJP will finish second. He believes the late announcement of the LDF candidate and symbol may affect them negatively. He also says coastal votes may favour the UDF. On the other hand, an auto driver named Vishakh claims that the BJP may achieve a surprise victory this time, stating that candidates from other fronts are weak. He also points out that BJP gaining control of the city corporation could influence the election. Meanwhile, a shopkeeper named Sharafudheen believes the LDF will retain the seat. He cites increased pensions, distribution of pending pension dues, and rehabilitation efforts in Wayanad as reasons for his view.