Thiruvananthapuram: Trinamool Congress state convenor and former Nilambur MLA P.V. Anvar has officially entered the Nilambur by-election race, ending days of speculation over his candidature.
Party sources confirmed that Anvar is set to file his nomination papers on Monday, with the Trinamool national leadership already allotting him the party symbol. A formal announcement of his candidacy is expected soon.
His decision has sparked significant interest in Kerala’s political circles, especially following his statement on Saturday, in which he ruled out contesting due to financial constraints. At the time, Anvar had asserted that he lacked the crores typically required for an election campaign and dismissed any active political ties with the United Democratic Front (UDF).
However, in a surprising shift later the same day, Anvar appeared to reconsider his decision.
“What can I do if so many common workers come to visit me with Rs 500 and Rs 1,000, pleading with me to contest?” he said, suggesting mounting grassroots pressure had influenced his change of heart.
Adding intrigue to the unfolding developments, Youth Congress state president Rahul Mamkoottathil paid a late-night visit to Anvar’s residence in Malappuram on Saturday.
While details of their discussion remain undisclosed, Anvar’s candidacy was confirmed just hours later, sparking speculation about behind-the-scenes negotiations.
Anvar has also been engaged in earlier talks with the UDF regarding the Trinamool’s potential inclusion in the alliance. Although Congress leaders reportedly offered the Trinamool associate membership status, Anvar rejected the offer, insisting instead on full membership for his party.
The stalemate over this demand had cast uncertainty over his political direction – until now.
Anvar, known for his unpredictability and populist appeal, appears poised for a high-stakes return to electoral politics in Nilambur, a constituency he once represented. With the Trinamool banking on his local clout and grassroots connections, the Nilambur by-election is likely to witness a keenly watched political battle.
(inputs from IANS)