Wayanad, Kerala: Gopi Manayathukudi, who contested the Pulpally Grama Panchayat’s Anappara ward on an LDF ticket, has joined the BJP.  The move came after accusing LDF of orchestrating crossvoting to help Congress win in the recent local body elections.

In Anappara, traditionally considered a BJP stronghold, Congress candidate Vinod Kanjookaran emerged victorious with 432 votes. BJP’s Sijesh Kuttan finished second with 393 votes, while Gopi Manayathukudi came third. 

Gopi alleged that LDF deliberately shifted votes to Congress to undermine BJP prospects.

He said LDF leaders had pressured him to file nomination papers on the last day, promising 264 confirmed votes and full campaign support. “None of these assurances were given any regard,” he said. He added that his complaints were ignored, with party just saying the matter “could be looked into.”

BJP leaders visited Gopi and his family at their home to formally welcome them into the party