
The controversy surrounding P V Anvar's possible induction into the United Democratic Front (UDF) remains unresolved, as AICC General Secretary K C Venugopal declined to meet the Trinamool leader on Wednesday. Anvar had placed his hopes on Venugopal’s intervention, anticipating that a meeting might help resolve internal disagreements and pave the way for his inclusion.
Initially, Venugopal made a conciliatory statement, suggesting that Anvar would not be isolated within the UDF. However, later in the day, he dismissed the possibility of a meeting, asserting that Kerala’s state leadership was capable of handling the matter. He also claimed that reports of a scheduled meeting were media fabrications. Anvar, who had arrived in Kozhikode expecting a discussion with Venugopal, was left disappointed.
Adding to the day’s developments, former KPCC president K Sudhakaran publicly supported Anvar. Speaking in Kannur, Sudhakaran questioned the firm stance taken by Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan against Anvar’s entry, suggesting that such a decision cannot be made by Satheesan alone. He emphasized Anvar’s political relevance and hinted that his support could be influential in future electoral outcomes.
Venugopal’s earlier remarks had momentarily revived Anvar’s hopes, but his subsequent withdrawal indicated internal friction within the Congress. Party insiders suggest that Anvar's efforts to join the UDF may be deepening rifts in the Kerala unit of the Congress, raising concerns about unity within the alliance.
The day’s events underscored ongoing tensions and the lack of consensus within the UDF on Anvar’s induction, prolonging the political drama with no immediate resolution in sight.