PALAKKAD: Former BJP leader Sandeep Varier walked the red carpet into congress party on Saturday. Later by night, Sandeep took part in the vehicle rally of UDF candidate Rahul in Palakkad. The city was gripped in the euphoric road show that saw huge participation. It was a fine first day at the office for Sandeep Varier.

Despite being known for its tight contest; Palakkad always saw minority sections favouring Congress over other parties. Congress is hopeful that the tradition continues this time too. Shafi Parambil had the knack to rope in votes from LDF. But now, doubts remain about his successor Rahul’s capacity to do the same. There is no certainty about LDF votes coming to UDF this time in Palakkad.

In an interesting turn of events, Sandeep, barely 24 hours after his induction to Congress, touched Malappuram to meet Panakkad Muhammad Ali Shihab Thangal. It was a shrewd political move at the behest of Congress leadership. There is concern about many in the minority section being perturbed in Palakkad over Sandeep’s switch to Congress. Meanwhile, there are surprising reports of BJP gaining momentum in the constituency after Sandeep's switch. As per reports, Sandeep's switch has done little to dent BJP votes this time.

There is fear of minority votes going to LDF camp this time. This resulted in Sandeep reaching Malappuram to meet Thangal and throwing adulations on the leader and Muslim league. Will this bear any fruit? The wait continues until the 23rd of November.