PALAKKAD: The CPM district leadership has started efforts to rope in Congress leader P Sarin into the communist camp, minding the change in political tide in Palakkad. Sarin made his disappointment public and rebelled against the congress's decision to drop him and choose Rahul Mamkootathil as the candidate for Palakkad.

There are indications that Sarin conducted covert talks with CPM leaders and will soon jump ship to the Red Party. It is learned that the CPM district secretariat on Wednesday decided to support Sarin. The party looks to milk from the congress rebellion and expects a coup in the congress favouring Palakkad.

It is also indicated that the opinion was expressed in the meeting to capitalize on the discord in Congress. Senior leaders within CPM will come to a final decision only after knowing more about Sarin’s new political manoeuvrings. The district leaders will discuss with the state leadership on the issue.

Opposition Leader VD Satheesan has responded to the press conference held by Congress Digital Media Convener P Sarin. Speaking to the media in Thiruvalla, Satheesan said that he did not know why Sarin reacted emotionally.

"I don't know why Sarin reacted in such a way. I had requested him not to react emotionally. He would face the consequences for it," Satheesan said.

"Candidates were finalized after discussions. We have announced the best candidates for the by-elections. Rahul Mamkootathil is a smart candidate. He is the battle leader of the Congress.”