oommen-chandy

KOTTAYAM: Puthupally, that has been synonymous with Oommen Chandy for over five decades is now in search of a successor. As Puthupally gears up for its first-ever by-election speculations regarding the replacement candidate are being discussed. The name of Chandy Oommen is widely heard in the discussions. However, if the family decides not to participate religious and communal factors may come into play while selecting a candidate.

Oommen Chandy made his mark in Puthupally's political landscape back in 1970 at the age of 27. He secured a victory against the sitting MLA of CPM, E M George. Since then, Puthupally has served as a political battleground witnessing numerous alternating contestants from the Communist Party. While Oommen Chandy has achieved twelve consecutive victories, CPM’s young face, Jake C. Thomas lost the last election by a margin of 9,044 votes. Despite occasionally narrowing the majority no challenger has been able to unseat Oommen Chandy.

The Communist Party's confidence stems from the fact that Chandy's margin of victory decreased in the last election. Amidst rumors of Chandy Oommen's potential candidacy, it is speculated that Rahul Gandhi desires him to assume the responsibility of AICC in Delhi. If Chandy Oommen accepts this proposal, he will be offered a seat in the upcoming parliamentary elections. With no family member contesting the by-election, names of Congress leaders with a long-standing presence in the constituency for the past 53 years will likely appear in the list of potential candidates.

The Orthodox, Jacobite, Ezhava and Nair communities hold crucial voting influence in Puthupally. Umman Chandy's success amidst the Orthodox-Jacobite conflict was attributed to his personal influence. Jake C. Thomas, hailing from the Jacobite community contested the last election with an eye on securing Jacobite votes. If he decides to contest again, UDF District Convener Adv. Philson Mathews will also be given priority. Other potential candidates include former DCC President Joshi Philip and District Panchayat Member Nibu John. In the event of candidate uncertainty, the Communist Party will field a consensus candidate. Notable names being considered from the party include Central Region President N. Hari, State General Secretary George Kurian and District President Lijin Lal.

The Puthupally constituency comprises Puthupally, Manarkad, Pampady, Akalakunnam, Ayarkunnam, Kooroppada, Meenadam and Vakathanam panchayats with six of them falling under the Left Front's influence. Jose K. Mani also holds influence in Akalakunnam and Iyarkunnam panchayats.

2021 election results

Oommen Chandy : 63,372 (48.08%)

Jake C Thomas : 54,328 (41.22%)

Margin : 9044