Congress leaders back Left candidate Sarin, criticize Shafi's 'dictatorship' in Palakkad

PALAKKAD: As controversies surrounding candidate selections continue to simmer, the Congress party in Palakkad faces fresh dissent. In a surprising turn, Congress leaders in the constituency have expressed support for Dr P Sarin, an independent candidate backed by the Left, over their own party's nominee, MP Shafi Parampil.

Pirayiri panchayat member Sithara Sasi and her husband, G. Sasi, who serves as the Congress constituency secretary, publicly voiced their endorsement of Sarin. Sithara criticized Shafi Parampil, alleging that he failed to fulfill development promises he made to the constituency. "After his victory, he has not looked back," she remarked, pointing to a lack of implemented projects.

G. Sasi echoed these sentiments, accusing Shafi of favoritism, stating that funds from the Asset Development Fund are distributed selectively. "There is a dictatorial approach in the party under Shafi’s leadership," he alleged, explaining their decision to support Sarin as a form of protest.

Despite this, both Sithara and G. Sasi have affirmed their commitment to the Congress and have filed a formal complaint against Shafi Parampil with KPCC president K. Sudhakaran, signaling their intent to remain within the party while seeking accountability.