High Stakes By-Election Drama: Anvar's Demands and UDF's Defiance

The UDF has dismissed conditions by P V Anvar for supporting its by-election candidates in Kerala. Anvar proposes withdrawing support for the Chelakkara seat in favor of his candidate. UDF leaders reject his demands, emphasizing democratic and secular values, while Anvar announces support for Priyanka Gandhi.

The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) has turned down conditions set by MLA P V Anvar for backing its candidates in the Kerala by-elections. Anvar, who recently formed the Democratic Movement of Kerala, has proposed withdrawing support for a UDF candidate in exchange for backing his nominee.

UDF leaders, however, firmly rejected Anvar's proposal to withdraw former MP Remya Haridas from the Chelakkara by-election. The opposition leader, V D Satheesan, emphasized that Anvar's stance aligns with opposition concerns, yet questioned his motives for contesting against the ruling CPI(M) government.

Despite the tension, the UDF remains unshaken about its election prospects, while Anvar publically pledges support for Priyanka Gandhi in the Wayanad bypoll, albeit with an air of sarcasm from UDF leaders over its significance.

(With inputs from agencies.)