The Nilambur by-election, which has emerged as a political hotspot in Kerala, is witnessing high-voltage political drama. Politician P.V. Anwar has entered the scene with a move that could prove decisive for his political future. He has mounted intense pressure to secure entry into the United Democratic Front (UDF), and all eyes are on how the Congress leadership will respond to his demand.
Within the Congress itself, internal strife over the Nilambur seat had already intensified. DCC President V.S. Joy and KPCC General Secretary Aryadan Shoukath were both vying for the seat, with strong grassroots support for each. It is into this factional tussle that Anwar has now stepped in with his own political agenda.Anwar's threat to contest as an independent candidate if UDF entry is delayed has created a significant headache for the Congress leadership. The fear of political oblivion has made Anwar increasingly aggressive. As part of his strategy, he has decided to convene the Trinamool Congress State Committee meeting on the 23rd, where he is expected to announce his next political steps.
The Congress leadership, however, dismissed Anwar’s pressure tactics. Their stance was that Anwar should demonstrate his political commitment by unconditionally supporting the UDF before being considered for entry. Anwar refused to accept this condition. Notably, he had submitted a request for entry into the UDF months ago, which adds another layer to the unfolding political developments.
Amidst this uncertainty, the Indian Union Muslim League came forward to back the Congress, stating that Anwar's threats should not influence the coalition and that they would support whichever candidate the UDF selects. IUML National Treasurer P.V. Abdul Wahab asserted that Anwar lacks significant political influence in Nilambur.Further complicating the candidature debate, KPCC General Secretary Alipatta Jameela demanded that a woman candidate be fielded in Nilambur—an Assembly segment falling under Priyanka Gandhi’s parliamentary constituency. This has intensified discussions within the Congress.
To avoid a head-on clash between V.S. Joy and Aryadan Shoukath, the Congress leadership is considering fielding a consensus third candidate. Such a move, they believe, could neutralize Anwar's bargaining power and help the party present a united front in the election.
Eventually, Aryadan Shoukath stated that he would accept the high command’s decision on the candidate and pledged to ensure the victory of whoever is nominated. He added that discussions on the Congress candidate were still ongoing.
Thus, the Nilambur by-election has turned into a political tempest, fueled by Anwar’s aggressive tactics, internal disputes within Congress, IUML’s firm support, and calls for a woman candidate. Political observers and the general public in Kerala now keenly await the outcome of this unfolding political drama.