Kottayam: The Chengannur by-poll outcome will influence the next political move of Kerala Congress (M). Party chief K.M. Mani is evaluating the ground scenario before taking a stand as of now. LDF convener Vaikom Viswan on Saturday said the front needed the support of the KC(M). The inherent risk for Mr Mani would be any misstep would spoil the party. According to KC(M) insiders, Mr Mani has a tilt towards the LDF, but working chairman P.J. Joseph is not favour.
Senior leader Joseph M. Puthussery said the party would take an open stand when the election notification comes. Mr Mani had revealed that LDF candidate Saji Cherian had sought his support. BJP national executive member PK Krishnadas also met him at his Pala residence seeking support. However, the CPI ruled out any understanding with the KC (M), and the LDF didn't even need its support in Chengannur.
The KC (M) had a sizeable number of votes in the constituency. Mr Puthussery claimed that the party is well functional in every panchayat in the constituency and has close to 10,000 votes. K.R. Saraswathy Amma of the Kerala Congress had won here in 1965 after its formation in 1964. Thomas Kuthiravattam contested in 1980 and got defeated. However, the KC(M) is making committees in every panchayat functional.
