Kozhikode: LDF convener T.P. Ramakrishnan claimed that the CPM will achieve a sweeping victory in the Nilambur byelection. Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, he said Nilambur is a sitting seat of the CPM and Anvar is not a relevant factor there.

He added that the CPM has also considered independents for its seats and that there is no concern within the LDF regarding candidate selection. “The discussion about the candidate has not yet started,” he said. Ramakrishnan further asserted that the prevailing situation in the state is quite conducive to a third consecutive LDF government in Kerala.

He also expressed doubts about the stance of the Muslim League (a key ally of the Congress-led UDF), which he claimed is aligning with Jamaat-e-Islami. He urged the League to clearly distance itself from both Jamaat-e-Islami and the SDPI.

Commenting on the Waqf row, Ramakrishnan said the amendment to the Waqf Act is aimed at depriving religious minorities of protection and cannot be agreed to, as it denies Muslims their rights over Waqf. The amendment, he said, is part of a broader move to take away minority rights.

"The RSS’s communal agenda is being implemented by the Centre. Everyone knows who misled the residents of Munambam by giving false assurances based on the law. The state government has made its position on Munambam clear and unambiguous. The necessary steps must be taken to ensure the protection of the families there, and the government stands with those families," he said.

Ramakrishnan alleged that the BJP is deceiving people by forming alliances with communal forces and corporates, and said it had betrayed the people of Munambam. He questioned which provision of the recently passed law ensures protection for the residents of Munambam.