Pathanamthitta: An unexpected twist unfolded in the political landscape of Pathanamthitta as V Anoop, State Secretary of Youth Congress, emerged as a rebel candidate for the Congress party. Anoop also serves as the elected Congress representative for the 5th ward in Adoor Enadimangalam Grama Panchayat. 

The Youth Congress and District Congress Committee (DCC) explained that Anoop's candidacy was initially submitted as a dummy candidate. However, circumstances arose where the nomination could not be withdrawn as Anoop could not be present on the day of the withdrawal, leading to his unexpected appearance on the ballot.

There is speculation surrounding the party's response to Anoop's candidacy, particularly given his status as a Grama Panchayat representative. Questions have been raised about the failure to withdraw Anoop's nomination despite provisions allowing for withdrawal by an authorised person.