'Loses golden opportunity'; BJP expresses dissatisfaction over fielding actress as candidate

KOCHI: The BJP activists expressed grave dissatisfaction with the decision to hand over the Tripunithura constituency where they had a strong chance of winning to Twenty20. The activists saw this election as a golden opportunity to prove their strength since they have the power of the municipality. However, the BJP activists do not have that enthusiasm now. Actress Anjali Nair is contesting from Tripunithura on Twenty20 ticket.

Although the leaders are dissatisfied for giving the constituency where the party has a great influence, they have decided not to react publicly. However, criticism is being raised on social media on Anjali Nair's candidacy. The BJP had promised to give Tripunithura to Twenty20 president Sabu M Jacob. However, Twenty20 demanded that Akhil Marar, a director and reality show star, who recently joined the party, be given Tripunithura. The BJP did not accept this. Finally, Akhil Marar was given a seat in Thrikkakara.

Local BJP leaders opined that the seat should have been taken back when Sabu M Jacob informed of not contesting. The LDF and UDF have a strong base in the constituency. However, the BJP had captured the city administration in the recent local body elections. Activists pointed that there was an opportunity for the BJP to grow as Congress sitting MLA K Babu had backed out from the fray. However, the activists alleged that they don’t have hope now with the nomination of Anjali Nair.