Political Tensions Rise Over Alleged Vote Manipulation in Palakkad Bypoll

P Sarin, a former Congress leader and LDF candidate for the Palakkad bypoll, ignited controversy by alleging that Left sympathizers aided Congress in the 2021 election to prevent a BJP victory. His remarks have sharpened tensions, with parties trading accusations over alleged backdoor alliances and political deals.

P Sarin, an expelled Congress leader now running as an LDF candidate in Palakkad's bypoll, has sparked a major political stir. Sarin's claim that Congress won the 2021 elections with votes from Left sympathizers aiming to stop the BJP's win has triggered sharp reactions across parties.

Sarin asserted that this time Congress won't benefit from such 'negative votes,' which previously worked against BJP candidate 'Metroman' E Sreedharan. His comments questioned the actual influence Left votes have in the election dynamics of the constituency.

Responses to his statements have varied: while Congress distanced themselves from Sarin's claims, the BJP seized on the opportunity, arguing it proves their long-standing allegations of a covert CPI(M)-Congress alliance. Meanwhile, Sarin clarified, attributing the 2021 election's outcome to Parambil's last-minute strategies.

(With inputs from agencies.)