Left cashes in on delay in declaring bypoll dates

Thiruvananthapuram: The LDF which was highly critical of the Election Commission’s delay in announcing Chengannur bypoll dates, is now making all efforts to utilise the interim period for pushing infrastructure development projects and holding public oriented programmes in the constituency. The LDF candidate has gone to town over the technical and administrative sanction received for the proposed bridge connecting Chennithala-Bodhanoor panchayats in the constituency. Since the project is a long cherished dream of the people of  these panchayats, Saji Cherian is listing it out as one of the major gifts given by the LDF government ahead of poll.

The bridge project was envisaged by former MLA late K. K. Ramachandran Nair and Rs 6 crore was set aside for the same in last budget. Subsequently the amount was raised to Rs 11.8 cr following revised estimates. Apart from development project, the LDF candidate has big plans to celebrate Vishu festival in a big way. Cherian’s Karuna Palliative Care Society has joined hands with State Biodiversity Council and district agriculture cooperative societies to organise a grand “Vishukani” in Chengannur from April 11 to 15. The programme is slated to have a series of events including seminars, debates on agri sector, exhibition-cum-sale of agri products, quiz competition and cattle exhibition.

Notwithstanding the CPM allegation that BJP was behind the delay in announcement of poll dates, many LDF local leaders believe that EC decision to announce the schedule later has in a way come as blessing in disguise. Since the election code of conduct is not in force, the state government can push some of the popular projects, make big announcements and lay foundation stones in the constituency.