WAYANAD: The hilly district of Kerala, bordering Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, is poised for a riveting political showdown with K Surendran, the state BJP president, stepping into the arena. Rahul Gandhi and Annie Raja emerge as key contenders for Congress and CPI, respectively. The BJPโs decision to field its โcaptainโ signals a strategic move to make inroads into the state.
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Until March 25th, Wayanad seemed like a walkover for Rahul Gandhi, with Annie Raja posing a formidable challenge. However, political analysts believe BJPโs K Surendran could shake things up by potentially drawing traditional Congress votes, bolstering CPIโs chances. โThe BJPโs seriousness in every constituency signals a tough fight for Rahul Gandhi,โ remarked Avinash Mohan, an environmentalist from Kalpetta.
In 2014, Congressโ MI Shanawas won with 41.21% followed by CPIโs Sathyan Mokeri. But in 2019, Wayanad gained national significance when Rahul Gandhi contested, securing 64.4% of the votes. Yet, discontentment brews among voters, accusing Rahul Gandhi of unfulfilled promises. โWhat has he done for the constituency?โ questions Paul Mathew, a Sulthan Bathery trader.
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Surendran anticipates a tough battle against established Congress and CPI figures, focusing his campaign on development issues. โRahul Gandhiโs inaction mirrors his Amethi fate,โ he asserted. Speaking to urban voters, many express a desire for change, citing critical issues like falling crop prices and rampant development. โWe need a change,โ says Omana Kutty, an Anganwadi teacher from Mananthavady.
