KOTTAYAM: It is a tough fight for supremacy between two erstwhile colleagues in Idukki—sitting MLA Roshi Augustine of the KC (M) and Mr Francis George of the Kerala Congress (Democratic), which had parted ways with the former a few months ago.
Mr Roshi Augustine had won the Assembly seat in 2001, 2006 and 2011 and Mr Francis George was elected to the Lok Sabha in 1999 and 2004. However, he was defeated in 1996, 1998 and 2009. Both are popular in the area and are familiar with the major issues, including title deeds for the settlers and the Kasturirangan report on the western ghats, which are agitating the people.
BDJS candidate Biju Madhavan is counting on the support of the large number of SNDP members in the constituency. Though the powerful Syro-Malabar diocese of Idukki, whose decision may determine the outcome, has not taken any decision is favour of any candidate, a major section of the High Range Samrakshana Samithi (HRSS) has extended support to Mr Francis George. The constituency also contains the areas coming under the dioceses of Pala, Kanjirapally and Thiruvalla.
Idukki is a traditional UDF stronghold. Mr Roshy Augustine banks on the developmental initiatives he has undertaken in the district as well as his rapport with the people in the constituency. Mr Francis George spearheads the campaign saying that he will provide title deeds without any conditions if the LDF comes to power. He also says that steps will be taken for earmarking the Ecologically Sensitive Zones (ESZs) without affecting the populated areas as well as farm lands.
The constituency comprises the Kattapana municipality and Thopramkudy, Vathikudy, Kamakshi, Mariyapuram , Vazhathope, Kanjiar, Arakulam, Kudayathur and Kanjikuzhy panchayats.
