Days before the election results, the electoral contest in Kerala’s Beypore has taken a dramatic turn. UDF-backed candidate P.V. Anvar has raised the stakes by promising to shave his head, wear earrings, and walk through Kozhikode if his CPI-M rival, state Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas, wins. Anvar’s bold move has added a theatrical touch to the political landscape.
Anvar’s pledge, though seemingly theatrical, signifies his confidence in the election outcome. The rivalry between Anvar and Riyas has intensified, with Anvar challenging Riyas’ claim of securing over 82,000 votes. Anvar asserts that Riyas will not surpass 65,000 votes and expresses certainty in his own victory.
Formerly aligned with the Left, Anvar has become a vocal critic of Chief Minister Vijayan, accusing him of nepotism and centralization of power. Despite the humorous undertones in their exchanges, the electoral battle between Anvar and Riyas holds significant political implications. Anvar’s decision to contest as an independent candidate under the UDF banner reflects the seriousness of the electoral challenge.
