Lok Sabha Polls 2024: Three-way battle in 'Venice of the East' Alappuzha
Lok Sabha polls in Alappuzha, often referred to as the «Venice of the East,» gained attention as the Congress nominated its general secretary (organisation) K C Venugopal to contest against A M Ariff, the sitting MP from the ruling CPI(M), and the BJP's dynamic leader Sobha Surendran.
Like its famous boat racing events, where victory is determined by the pulling powers of the participants, the constituency has a history of swinging in favour of both the CPI(M)-led LDF and the Congress-led UDF, often making it difficult to predict election outcomes.
The land of coir, backwaters, beaches, and marine products, the constituency also comprises places that played a significant role in major progressive movements in Kerala. Trying his luck in the constituency that he represented in 2009 and 2014, Venugopal is seeking votes, highlighting the alleged failures of the Narendra Modi-led NDA government in addressing the people's problems.
«You can see the enthusiasm from the voters. I have no doubts about a win,» the Congress leader told PTI as he was walking towards his open vehicle for the campaign.
Venugopal, a Rajya Sabha MP from Rajasthan, faces allegations from the CPI(M) that he will «donate» a seat to the BJP if elected from Alappuzha, which he firmly denies, emphasising the main fight against the BJP-led NDA. «I have already answered that question. No one should have any doubt that our main fight is against the BJP-led NDA,» he said.
Responding to criticisms against Rahul Gandhi contesting from Wayanad, Venugopal
