Palakkad: Heaping praise on senior leader K Muraleedharan, Sandeep Varier, who recently left the BJP to join the Congress, said Malayalis can never get tired of sea, elephants, Mohanlal or Muraleedharan. Varier, speaking at a public event here on Monday, called Muraleedharan a strong and capable leader, likening him to his father, legendary K Karunakaran whom he credited as a leader with exceptional execution capabilities.  

He was speaking at the inauguration of a new building for the Sreekrishnapuram Multipurpose Society.

In his response, Muraleedharan also praised Sandeep and personally welcomed him to the stage. Muraleedharan remarked that differences of opinion are natural in politics, however, noted that Congress remains a democratic party. "He has joined our democratic party, and now we are all part of the same family," Muraleedharan said to the media.  

The event in Palakkad presented a rare sight, as both Sandeep and Muraleedharan shared the stage. Sandeep, who had been opposed by Muraleedharan upon his entry into Congress, was given a seat close to him. The two were seen exchanging pleasantries and private remarks, moments that were captured by cameras.  

Earlier, Muraleedharan had expressed displeasure over not being informed about Sandeep’s induction into the party. Following his entry, Muraleedharan's Facebook post addressing the matter also attracted huge attention. 

The joint appearance of the two leaders on the same stage is seen as a move to dispel rumours of discord and project unity within the Congress party.