THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Dispute between A and I groups over state president candidates in Youth Congress organizational elections. Four people submitted nominations as dissidents from A group. The 'I' Group has replaced the candidate it had previously fixed.
Meanwhile, the time for submission of nomination papers has been extended till 5 pm today. It was supposed to end yesterday, but the national leadership announced that the date was extended to 4:30 pm today. Although the cause is said to be a technical problem, it is indicated that it is due to pressure from groups.
It is reported that OJ Janish will be the candidate instead of Abin Varkey who was designated as the I Group candidate. The reason was a split in the group over the candidate. Abin has not yet submitted his nomination.
The group's dissidents Vishnu Sunil Pandalam, Abidali KA, Anish Kattakkada and Dulkhifil have filed nominations to split the votes of Group A candidate Rahul Mamkootathil. They protest that the official candidate was decided over Oommen Chandy's interest. Prominent Youth Congress leaders from Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode districts have informed the group leadership that they will not accept Rahul Mamkootathil. Meanwhile, group leaders say that the dispute will be resolved soon and negotiations have started.
Anutaj is the candidate of the Kodikunnil Suresh faction. It is reported that Veena S Nair, who submitted her nomination yesterday evening, has the support of opposition leader VD Satheesan. KC Venugopal's nominee, Binu Chulliyil, has not submitted his nomination yet, which has led to discussions.
Today, the last day for nomination submission, many undercurrents are expected to take place. Nominations submitted online cannot be withdrawn.