Kottayam has emerged as a politically transformed district following the entry of Kerala Congress (M) into the Left Democratic Front (LDF).

In the 2021 Assembly elections, the LDF stunned the United Democratic Front (UDF) by winning five out of nine seats, three of which were secured by Kerala Congress (M). However, the defeat of party leader Jose K. Mani in Pala remained a blemish on an otherwise strong performance.

This is the first general election after the demise of Oommen Chandy, who was considered the backbone of the UDF in the district. Party workers believe that securing a strong victory beyond the four seats currently in hand would be the best tribute to him. For the LDF, which is aiming for a third consecutive term, this election is equally a matter of prestige. The front hopes to improve on its previous tally, while Jose K. Mani and his allies must prove that their decision to align with the LDF was correct. Winning Pala and all seats contested by the party is crucial in that regard.

Amid this intense contest between the two fronts, the BJP has added a new dimension by fielding candidates in at least four constituencies, setting the stage for triangular contests. Pala is at the centre of this battle, where Jose K. Mani, seeking a comeback, faces sitting MLA Mani C. Kappan, along with a challenge from Shaun George, son of PC George.

A similar scenario is unfolding in Poonjar, where PC George, who has represented the constituency under different political banners, is now contesting on an NDA ticket. His strategy hinges on consolidating his personal vote base with that of the BJP. However, Kerala Congress (M) candidate Sebastian Kulathunkal and Congress candidate Sebastian MJ have dismissed his chances.

In Kanjirappally, the BJP has fielded Union Minister George Kurian to challenge Kerala Congress (M)’s Dr N. Jayaraj, a close associate of the late KM Mani. The Congress has also introduced a fresh face, Rony K. Baby, as its candidate. As part of its outreach to Christian communities, the BJP has fielded Christian candidates in three nearby constituencies. However, rival parties are attempting to counter this move by raising concerns over amendments to the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA).

Vaikom, traditionally a CPI stronghold, is witnessing a tougher contest this time. Congress has set aside internal differences to field K. Binimon against CPI candidate P. Pradeep. The entry of former CPI MLA K. Ajith as an NDA candidate has further intensified the contest, making a routine Left victory unlikely.

In Puthuppally, Kottayam, and Kaduthuruthy, the LDF is trying to cut into the UDF’s traditional vote base. In Ettumanoor, which gained attention following allegations raised by VD Satheesan, Minister VN Vasavan faces DCC president Nattakom Suresh of the Congress. The Twenty20 party has fielded influencer Athira D. Nair, the youngest candidate in the state, in a constituency where the BJP commands a vote base of around 30,000.

Though the Joseph faction of Kerala Congress had to make certain compromises within the UDF, it does not see them as obstacles to its goal of regaining power. Meanwhile, Changanassery is witnessing a heated direct contest between two factions of the Kerala Congress.