No need to yield to K Sudhakaran's pressure tactics, says Rahul Gandhi; T O Mohanan likely to be named UDF candidate in Kannur

NEW DELHI: In a significant development, the Congress high command has decided not to give a seat to K Sudhakaran MP in Kannur. It has been decided not to yield to his pressure or insistence. Rahul Gandhi directly instructed that no efforts should be made to persuade him.

The AICC leadership is said to be unhappy with the delay and disputes in finalising candidates in Kerala. In this context, the party has decided not to give in to Sudhakaran’s demands. There are indications that former mayor T O Mohanan may be fielded as the UDF candidate in the constituency.

Even four days after the announcement of elections in the state, the party has not been able to release its full list of candidates. The delay is largely attributed to the ongoing dispute over Sudhakaran’s candidature, which has caused concern among both the state leadership and the high command. Both sides have taken a firm stand that sitting MPs should not contest in the election.

Party national president Mallikarjun Kharge had recently questioned the logic behind giving a seat to K Sudhakaran. The state leadership also made it clear that they would withdraw from the contest if Sudhakaran was given a seat. This became a major reason for denying him a ticket. Senior leaders, including A K Antony, tried to persuade Sudhakaran, but he remained firm in his position. Meanwhile, sources close to Sudhakaran say that he may take a strong decision if the denial of the seat is officially confirmed.

There are also reports that Sudhakaran may resign from party posts, including his membership in the Congress Working Committee, and contest as an independent candidate. He reportedly told the leadership that he has a strong influence in the party and can affect results in 29 constituencies, but this did not change the decision. Sudhakaran is also upset as he had stepped down from the KPCC president post with the expectation that he would be given a chance to contest in the Assembly election. His next move is expected to be announced soon through a press conference.