Kochi: Candidates in the IT capital of Thrikkakara have promised a model election campaigning devoid of any personal allegations or criticisms. The three candidates of major political parties, Sebastian Paul (CPM), P.T. Thomas (Congress) and Vivek Vijayan (NDA) said their focus will be on development, though political issues could also come up. “We will not raise any personal allegations against our rivals or employ dirty tricks like fielding namesake candidates to confuse voters,” they said.
Participating in ‘Keralam – 2016 – 2021' election special programme of the Ernakulam Press Club on Wednesday, they expressed confidence in their prospects. Interestingly, the three candidates are lawyers and their alma mater is Maharajas College, Ernakulam. “Since the sitting MLA is not in the fray, there is no possibility for anti-incumbency factor (against the candidate) in the constituency. Though seat denial to Benny Behanan and the subsequent political situation will be topics for the poll campaign, I will not make any personal allegations against the Congress candidate,” said Mr Paul.
He added that apart from the party’s general manifesto, a special manifesto exclusively for the constituency will be prepared. Mr Thomas said the Congress and the UDF are united and they would highlight party’s national level policies and principles. “I had been connected with Ernakulam and the issues of the area since 1978 when I came here as a student at Maharajas. I have decided to be in the fray after knowing that my rival candidates are famous and powerful. The potentials and challenges involved in the development of Thrikkakara will be taken care of,” he said.
The NDA candidate sees an opprtunty here as Thrikkakara is a model constituency with a considerable population of youngsters. “I am confident that being young I will get their support. A comprehensive redrafting of the development practice in Thrikkakara is required,” Mr Vijayan said.
