'Future plans to be announced at public meeting in Nilambur on Sunday'; Anwar parts ways with LDF

MALAPPURAM: Nilambur MLA P V Anwar has announced his departure from the LDF after delivering a scathing critique of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the CPM. Anwar declared that he would no longer be aligned with the LDF and revealed plans to announce his future political direction in Nilambur. He also shared that a public meeting has been scheduled for Sunday in Nilambur.

However, when questioned by the media about a possible return to the Congress, Anwar refrained from giving a definitive answer. He expressed his continued respect for the Gandhi family, a sentiment that he said has always remained unchanged.

In a two-hour-long press conference, Anwar made several serious allegations. One of his key claims was related to the gold smuggling case, alleging that only a fraction of the gold seized by customs is officially accounted for. He also challenged the government to appoint a sitting judge to lead an investigation into the case, questioning whether there was enough courage to do so.

Anwar further commented on the late former CPM state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, stating that many people, including himself, still mourn his loss. He expressed disappointment that a proper mourning procession was not held for Kodiyeri and shared that this deeply hurt several of his party comrades.

Despite severing ties with the LDF, Anwar clarified that he has no intention of stepping down from his position as MLA. He emphasized that his position was granted by the people, particularly the grassroots workers of the Left Front and affirmed that he would serve out the remainder of his term, which spans another year and three-quarters. Even if pressured by the party, Anwar stated he would not resign.

Anwar also leveled accusations against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, alleging his involvement in disrupting the Thrissur Pooram festival. He insinuated that certain parties were benefitting from the state’s cooperation with the central government.

Among his most pointed criticisms, Anwar accused Chief Minister's Political Secretary P. Sasi of being a “thief" and claimed that ADGP Ajith Kumar referred to the Chief Minister as “Uncle.” Anwar's remarks further escalated as he sarcastically referred to Ajith Kumar as the Chief Minister's "son-in-law."