Former CPI(M) leader and rebel candidate V. Kunhikrishnan has claimed that he is unable to find space to open a polling station in Payyannur Assembly constituency and claims that landowners are backing down fearing repercussions from CPI(M) workers.
Mr Kunhikrishnan said he was recently forced to dismantle an election office after the property owner was allegedly threatened. He added that another supporter who had agreed to provide space on Sunday (March 22, 2026) later withdrew, citing pressure and family concerns about possible repercussions.
Contesting from the CPI(M) stronghold, Mr. Kunhikrishnan has been a vocal critic of the leadership after leaving the party. He had earlier accused sitting MLA TI Madhusoodanan of misappropriating the martyrs’ fund and other funds collected in the name of party activities.
The United Democratic Front decided not to field a candidate in Payyannur, supporting Mr. Kunhikrishnan in the Assembly elections. Senior Congress leader K. Sudhakaran is one of those who publicly endorsed his candidature and also spoke to him over phone and expressed his full support.
Speaking to The Hindu, Mr. Kunhikrishnan alleged that an atmosphere of fear prevailed in the constituency. “People are hesitant to come out in the open despite the widespread support of my party. This reflects the level of intimidation faced by those opposed to the CPI(M),” he said.
He argued that such a development would eventually backfire on the Left Democratic Front and translate into votes in its favor. “I have strong support even in areas considered party strongholds,” he said.
The rebel candidate further alleged that the election activities of the CPI(M)-led LDF in the constituency were being controlled by a “mafia group” and that the party leadership had not responded to the allegations of corruption leveled by him. He described the situation as a threat to democratic functioning and, according to him, elections should allow people to freely express their will.
“There is an attempt to push the state in an undemocratic direction. Voters will respond through voting,” he added, expressing confidence in victory.
Published – 22 March 2026 21:01 IST
