Kerala Assembly elections: Lethargy of workers may do K Muraleedharan in
Thiruvananthapuram: Sitting MLA from Vattiyoorkavu K Muraleedharan is a worried man not because of factionalism or internal problems but due to the lethargy that has developed in a section of party workers.
Even before elections, a sizeable section of Congress workers seem to have developed a feeling that Muraleedharan is comfortably placed and would clinch a victory. Their confidence is based on the extensive development works carried out by the MLA in the constituency during the past five years. Besides, they believe that Muraleedharan who has a permanent residence in Bhagvathy Nagar Kawdiar, has a "next door boy” image which would help him greatly.
However, Muraleedharan is not prepared to take any chances. The low attendance at his election convention had raised several eyebrows. In 2011 Muraleedharan secured a comfortable victory defeating Cherian Phillip who was LDF independent, by margin of over 10,000 votes. However, the situation on the ground has changed this time around.
CPM has fielded former Rajya Sabha member T N Seema. Her candidature has galvanised the CPM cadres in the constituency who were keen on getting a candidate contesting on party symbol. Her campaign is being carried out systematically by a formidable team.
Sources said it is in this backdrop, Muraleedharan sought KPCC president V M Sudheeeran’s intervention. The PCC president is learnt to have summoned the local leaders of the constituency and asked them to tighten their belts. They were told clearly that there was no room for complacency in such a high profile crucial electoral battle.
What is troubling Muraleedharan is also the presence of BJP state president Kummanam Rajashekharan in the electoral fray. Even opponents admit that the BJP leader is a formidable candidate who can make or mar their chances.
The scene has completely changed for the BJP since 2011 when V V Rajesh contested from Vattiyoorkavu. The BJP has made huge strides in the corporation elections winning about 10 wards falling in the constituency and they hope to do better this time.
