Though the BJP has emerged second in Palakkad and Malampuzha constituencies after a high-pitched triangular contest, the district continues to remain a traditional Left citadel, with LDF candidates emerging victorious in nine out of the 12 constituencies.
While retaining seven constituencies, the LDF could wrest Mannarkkad and Chittur with considerable margin from the Congress. Congress strongman K. Achuthan faced a humiliating defeat in Chittur where Janata Dal (Secular) candidate K. Krishnankutty upset the UDF applecart. In Pattambi, popular Congress leader C.P. Mohammed was defeated by JNU student leader and CPI candidate Muhammed Mohsin.
Sole relief
The sole relief for the Congress was Thrithala, where youth leader V.T. Balram increased its margin. The mandate won by Mr. Balram speaks volumes of the enormous clout he wields in the constituency, which was once a CPI(M) stronghold. It was more of a personal victory for Mr. Balram, as he could win the electorate’s confidence, cutting across political affiliations. Meanwhile, the IUML retained Mannarkkad with an increased margin. Sitting legislator N. Shamsudheen could impress the electorate, thanks to his outstanding work.
While Opposition Leader V.S. Achuthanandan increased his majority in Malampuzha, the Congress’ V.S. Joy was pushed to the third position. The BJP’s C. Krishnakumar stood second. In Palakkad, the CPI(M)’s N.N. Krishnadas also got the third position. The BJP’s Shobha Surendran came second, scoring even in areas where the BJP had negligible presence.
In Ottappalam, the CPI(M)’s P. Unni had a comfortable victory over the Congress’ Shanimol Usman, who had come all the way from Alappuzha. In Kongad reserved constituency, sitting legislator K.V. Vijayadas of the CPI(M) defeated Pandalam Sudhakaran, a prominent Congress leader from Pathanamthitta.
In Tharoor, CPI(M) central committee member A.K. Balan won with a massive mandate. K. Babu of the party won Nenmara, while another leader, K.D. Prasenan, won in Alathur. Except for a minor scuffle between LDF and UDF activists in Palakkad, counting passed off peacefully in the district.
LDF candidates emerge victorious in nine out of 12 constituencies in the district
