Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) veteran MM Mani is set to contest the upcoming Assembly elections from Udumbanchola constituency. The CPI(M) district secretariat has formally recommended his name, with party sources confirming that he is the only proposed candidate for the post.
The recommendation quells earlier speculation that the veteran leader might not stand for election due to health issues. However, the political landscape in Idukki has changed after the recent local body elections where the party faced significant setbacks.
“In the current situation, the party notes that only MM Mani can retain the Udumbanchola seat. He remains very active within the constituency,” a party source said.
Dominant figure
Popularly known as ‘Mani Aashan’, he remains a dominant figure in the region, backed by his accessibility and the large-scale development projects he has completed during his tenure. In the 2021 elections, Mani defeated UDF candidate EM Augusthy by a record margin of 38,305 votes. The LDF is now looking to repeat this feat.
“As an MLA, he spearheaded major development activities. Moreover, his position as a plantation head gives him a deep-seated influence that will be crucial for the party,” the source added.
In Devikulam constituency, the district secretariat has suggested that MLA A. Raja contest again. However, the LDF faces a new challenge as former CPI(M) leader and three-time MLA S. Rajendran has moved to the BJP fold. Mr. Rajendran’s extensive influence among plantation workers is seen as a significant threat to the LDF’s prospects in Devikulam. Despite this, the LDF still hopes that the strong presence of its unions in the plantation sector will be enough to retain the seat.
Currently, neither UDF nor BJP has officially announced their candidates for Udumbanchola and Devikulam constituencies.
Published – 28 February 2026 21:00 IST
