KOTTAYAM: CPM District Secretary AV Russell filed a complaint with the Election Commission demanding the postponement of the Puthupally by-election. The complaint pointed out that Onam, Gurudeva Jayanti, Ettunomb event at Manarkad church in Puthupally constituency, etc., would cause difficulty in campaigning.

Cooperation Minister VN Vasavan said in a press conference that instead of holding the by-election within six months, announcing the date a month before the death of Oommen Chandy is an unusual move. The minister also stated that the state government is also of the opinion that the elections should be postponed.

"There is no concern that there will be a wave of sympathy. Nibu John was not discussed to be a candidate at any stage. The problems in Congress are being thrust upon us because of nepotism in candidate selection. There will be a suitable candidate to present the popular issues of the constituency.", Vasavan said. CPM State Committee Member Adv K Anilkumar, District Secretary AV Russell, CPI District Secretary Adv VB Binu, Kerala Congress (M) District President Lopez Mathew and others also attended the press conference.