Kannur
Kunhikrishnan, once a widely popular grassroots leader of the CPI(M) in Kannur district, had been embroiled in a prolonged confrontation with the party’s local leadership over allegations of misappropriation of funds meant for a martyrs’ memorial account.
The dispute had been simmering for several months before escalating when the veteran leader published a book outlining his version of events and accusing certain party leaders of manipulating the issue against him.
The controversy ultimately led to his expulsion from the CPI(M), bringing an end to his long-standing relationship with the party that has dominated politics in the region for decades. Following his expulsion, Kunhikrishnan declared that he would take his case directly to the people by contesting the election independently.
I will meet every voter in the constituency and seek their support. During the course of my campaign, I will explain in detail why I was forced to take this step and why I have decided to contest, he said while announcing his candidature.
Kunhikrishnan will face the sitting CPI(M) legislator T. I. Madhusoodanan, whom he has openly accused of playing a key role in the alleged manipulation that led to his expulsion from the party.
The contest is significant because Payyannur has long been regarded as a stronghold of the Left in Kerala politics. Internal party dynamics in the constituency have often played a decisive role in determining electoral outcomes. The seat has historically remained with the CPI(M), reflecting the party’s deep organisational roots in the region.
In the 2021 Kerala Legislative Assembly election, Madhusoodanan secured a decisive victory, winning the constituency by a margin of more than 49,000 votes. However, Kunhikrishnan’s entry into the race as an Independent candidate has introduced a new element of uncertainty, raising the possibility of a split in the traditional Left vote bank.
Political observers believe the development could transform the Payyannur contest into one of the most closely watched battles in northern Kerala, as internal dissent within the Left camp may influence the electoral arithmetic in the constituency.