Congress to contest in 92 seats, big twist in Perumbavoor; Candidates list to be out shortly

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Ending two days of uncertainty, Congress will soon announce its list of candidates today. The Congress will contest on 92 seats. It is reported that the candidates for 60 seats will be announced today. The disputed seats will be left out to be announced later.

The high command remained steadfast in their decision not to give seats to MPs. Those, including K Sudhakaran, have been informed about this. It is not clear whether K Sudhakaran will follow this directive. Sudhakaran has earlier opined that he would contest in Kannur no matter what.

Sudhakaran is currently in Delhi to meet the high command and Rahul Gandhi. Before leaving for Delhi, Congress president Mallakarjun Kharge had spoken to Sudhakaran. It is reported that Sudhakaran had asked permission from Kharge to let him return to state politics. Ramesh Chennithala has also reportedly tried to persuade Sudhakaran. MP Adoor Prakash, who had shown interest in contesting elections, had obtained a non-liability certificate from the state government.

As per new reports, Eldhose Kunnappilly will not be given a seat in Perumbavoor. The high command is reportedly blocking his candidacy because of a sexual harassment case against him. Ullas Thomas and Manoj Moothedan are on the candidate list. The Syro Malabar Sabha has come forward for Manoj Moothedan. It is reported that Ramesh Chennithala is putting pressure on the High Command to reverse their decision on Eldhose Kunnappilly.