Kerala assembly polls: LDF candidate Sudheer Karamana denies rift with Antony Raju

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: LDF-backed independent candidate of Thiruvananthapuram Central Sudheer Karamana has clarified that there is no rift with former minister and sitting MLA Antony Raju, even as latter's absence from active campaign events in the constituency continues to spark political debate.

Speaking to media, Karamana said Raju has expressed his support through a Facebook video appealing for votes. "Isn't social media more effective in terms of reach than direct appearances?" he asked, adding that he met Raju in person and that the latter conveyed his difficulty in attending campaign events in person.

However, Raju's decision to stay away from public campaigning for Karamana has put LDF on the defensive. Political parties have reportedly been questioning the absence of sitting MLA during campaigning.

Raju, a leader of Janadhipathya Kerala Congress and sitting MLA from the constituency, also skipped an LDF election convention held in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday. At the same time, he shared a video message on CPM district committee's Facebook page expressing support for Karamana.

Sources indicate that Raju's stance may be linked to dissatisfaction over candidate selection. He was reportedly unhappy after CPM declined to field a candidate he recommended.

The issue has gained significance in the constituency, where a crucial triangular contest is under way. Senior Congress leader K Muraleedharan earlier alleged that CPM's decision to field a "weak candidate" in Thiruvananthapuram was part of a deal with BJP — an allegation that adds to the ongoing political tension.

However, while responding to the criticism, Raju said his decision to stay away from direct campaigning was based on ethical considerations rather than protest. Having been disqualified by a court from contesting elections, he said it would not be appropriate for him to publicly seek votes. However, he maintained that he continues to support Karamana through indirect means, including phone outreach to voters.

Raju won Thiruvananthapuram seat in 2021, the only seat secured by Janadhipathya Kerala Congress and subsequently became a minister. Following his disqualification in a case, the CPM decided to field an independent candidate backed by the LDF instead of allotting the seat to his party. CPM's refusal to allow the party to contest under its own symbol has reportedly led to discontent within Janadhipathya Kerala Congress.