THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Despite the United Democratic Front (UDF) winning the crucial Nilambur by-election, the impressive vote share secured by independent rebel P.V. Anvar has created a sharp dilemma within the opposition coalition, sparking a debate on whether to readmit the powerful but controversial leader.
Anvar, who contested as an independent after a public fallout with the UDF, proved his significant clout in the constituency, rattling both the UDF and the ruling LDF from the first round of counting. Now, while some UDF partners see a pragmatic advantage in bringing him back, Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan appears to be in no mood for a quick reconciliation.
Satheesan has adopted a strategy of completely ignoring Anvar post-election. The stance from the opposition leader’s camp is clear: the UDF won Nilambur without Anvar, proving its own strength, and therefore feels no pressure to accommodate him. According to sources, Satheesan’s position is that if Anvar wishes to cooperate, he must first declare his “unconditional support” for the UDF.
This hardline stance is influenced by a history of conflict. Anvar had previously made corruption allegations against Satheesan in the Assembly, only to later offer an unconditional apology. However, he subsequently renewed his attacks on the opposition leader, leading to a breakdown in trust.
While Satheesan remains firm, other key figures in the UDF are more accommodating. The Muslim League, a crucial UDF ally, believes Anvar is a significant “factor” in Nilambur and that his presence could benefit the coalition in other constituencies as well. The League is expected to lobby within the UDF for Anvar’s inclusion.
The Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President also holds the view that Anvar’s large vote share makes him too important to ignore, suggesting the “doors may have to be opened.” Even local leader Aryadan Shoukath, whose rivalry with Anvar was a key issue, has softened his stance, stating that the “UDF leaders should take a decision.”
For his part, Anvar has toned down his criticism of Satheesan since the election results were announced, adopting a more cautious approach. However, a technical hurdle remains, as Anvar is associated with the Trinamool Congress (TMC), which is not an ally of the UDF in Kerala.
P.V. Anvar’s political future now hangs in the balance, caught between the pragmatic calculations of UDF’s allies and the principled, hardball stance of its leader.
