Jayachandran may replace M M Mani in Udumbanchola

Idukki: Sitting MLA and former minister M M Mani is not likely to contest as a CPM candidate in the upcoming assembly election. The CPM state secretariat has reportedly revised the list submitted by the Idukki district secretariat, replacing Mani's name with that of former MLA K K Jayachandran in Udumbanchola constituency. The district leadership had recommended that Mani be fielded again from Udumbanchola, a constituency that has remained a CPM stronghold for nearly a quarter century. This had triggered strong speculation that Mani would once again be the party's candidate. However, after detailed discussions at the state secretariat, the leadership has reportedly decided to give the opportunity to Jayachandran, who is currently a state secretariat member and a three-time MLA.Jayachandran's candidature will be officially announced once it receives formal approval from the Idukki district secretariat and district committee. Udumbanchola was wrested by the LDF from the UDF in 2001 through Jayachandran, who went on to win three consecutive terms. In the 2016 assembly elections, marked by a strong triangular contest following the entry of a BDJS candidate, Mani retained the seat by a slender margin of 1,109 votes against the UDF nominee. In the subsequent election, Mani, who had served as a minister, secured a massive victory with a margin of 38,305 votes against the Congress candidate. At that time, LDF had also gained control of all 10 panchayats in the constituency.However, the political equations in the constituency have since changed. In the recent local body elections, the UDF captured five panchayats, including Rajakkad, which it regained after 27 years, causing concern within the Left camp. Despite this, the state leadership appears confident that Udumbanchola remains a safe seat for the party.Not aware of the decision: Mani Meanwhile, Mani on Monday said he was unaware of any party decision replacing him in the Udumbanchola constituency. He stated that he has no objection if the party decides otherwise and that it is entirely up to the party to determine whether he will be in the fray."I am hearing all this from you. Let the party decide everything," Mani said. He also dismissed speculation that health issues could be a reason for his exclusion, stating that he has not informed the party of any such concerns."Jayachandran and some other party leaders have diabetes. I have it too. That is not a health issue serious enough to prevent me from contesting," Mani added.