'Even Rahul Gandhi could become Kerala's Chief Minister, Pinarayi's victory would be as good as a defeat'

KANNUR: Former MLA P. V. Anvar said that even Rahul Gandhi could become the Chief Minister of Kerala if the Congress high command decides so. He was responding to media questions regarding the Chief Minister debate within the UDF. Anvar also said that Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s victory in Dharmadom would be as good as a defeat.

“Pinarayi’s majority will fall below 10,000 votes. Don't be surprised even if he loses. ‘Pinarayism’ and nepotism were the main issues discussed in this election. I invited Mohammed Riyas to the Kozhikode Press Club to place a bet. I said we could sign an agreement there about shaving our heads. If I lose, I will shave my head. If Riyas loses, he should do the same. That was the agreement I proposed. Riyas was in charge of Kozhikode, but he could not cross the boundaries of Beypore. Other candidates in Kozhikode were left ineffective,” Anvar said.

Anvar had recently challenged Minister Mohammed Riyas, saying he was confident of winning in the Beypore constituency. He had said that if Riyas wins, he would shave his head, wear earrings, and walk from Kidson Corner to SM Street and then to the railway station. He also asked whether Riyas would accept the challenge if the result went the other way. Anvar’s remarks came soon after exit polls predicted that Beypore would remain a stronghold of the LDF, even if the vote share decreases. However, Anvar claimed he would win the seat by a margin of 25,000 votes. Responding to the challenge, Riyas said there was no need to waste time replying to Anvar.