PALAKKAD: Chandy Oommen MLA has responded to criticisms regarding his alleged late arrival for the campaign of UDF candidate Rahul Mamkoottathil in Palakkad. He clarified that his extended stay in Wayanad was due to the involvement of Priyanka Gandhi, whom he personally supports in the ongoing elections.

"Priyanka Gandhi is contesting and I consider her a family member. When my father passed away, Sonia Gandhi spoke of him fondly, saying, ‘We miss him.’ This sentiment reflects the bond our family shares with theirs. I feel a deep responsibility to support her campaign," Chandy Oommen stated.

In Palakkad, Chandy emphasized that he was present as a "party worker" rather than in an official capacity, explaining, "I arrived at the convention without any invitation. Rahul Mamkoottathil has invested significant time in my election and I owe him the same dedication. However, my commitments in Wayanad took precedence."

Chandy Oommen also dismissed concerns over UDF’s prospects in Palakkad, confidently stating, "There is no doubt that UDF will win in Palakkad." Taking a jab at CPM, he noted, "It’s ironic that the CPM can't even find its own candidate for Palakkad. In fact, I’m unaware of who the LDF candidate was in the last three elections."

Chandy Oommen concluded by reiterating that he attended events in Chelakkara solely upon the instruction of the KPCC president, and otherwise would have remained in Wayanad.