Puthupally By-Election Gains Momentum as Candidates Engage in Independence Day Programs
The Puthupally by-election has intensified as the NDA candidate enters the fray. Both left and right front contenders are eager to connect with a larger number of voters, with plans to engage in Independence Day activities in the morning. UDF candidate Chandy Oommen will commence his tour at 7 am, covering six panchayats within the constituency. Prominent leaders are scheduled to address various events during this tour. Jake C. Thomas, while currently on personal visits, is actively seeking support from notable individuals in collaboration with Minister VN Vasavan. Meanwhile, LDF’s state leaders are participating in grassroots-level meetings. Jake is expected to submit his nomination papers soon. The NDA candidate, Lijin Lal, conducted his initial constituency tour recently and is set to embark on more tour programs starting from Pudupally. Central ministers will also be part of Lijin’s campaign efforts.
G Lijin Lal, BJP’s candidate for Pudupally, expressed his focus on bringing central projects to the area. He emphasized that the discourse in Pudupally revolves around development rather than any sympathy-driven sentiments. Lijin Lal acknowledged the significance of all candidates and emphasized the need for change in Pudupally. He vowed to vigorously campaign at the grassroots level.
Initially, there was speculation about Anil Antony contesting as the BJP candidate in Pudupally; however, Lijin Lal, the BJP Kottayam district president, was officially named as the candidate by the central leadership. Lijin previously contested from the Kattururthi constituency in the last assembly elections and has held roles within the Yuva Morcha. He played a pivotal role in coordinating BJP’s voluntary efforts during the Covid pandemic in the district. After senior leader George Kurian declined interest in contesting, the state leadership reached a consensus to field Lijin as the candidate.
