I Group Upset Over Abin Varkey’s Exclusion from Youth Congress Presidency

Thiruvananthapuram: The ‘I Group’ within the Congress party is poised to publicly articulate its discontent following the decision to overlook Abin Varkey for the coveted position of Youth Congress President. Sources indicate that Varkey might decline the offer of the National Secretary post in light of this development. Amidst the brewing controversy, Abin Varkey announced via a Facebook post that he would address the media at 10 AM today.

The ‘I Group’ has sharply criticized the decision, asserting that merit was undermined by sidelining Abin Varkey. Varkey had demonstrated significant popular support, securing over 170,000 votes and finishing as the runner-up in the recent Youth Congress elections. Furthermore, the group highlighted Varkey’s dedication to political activism, pointing out that he currently faces 72 cases registered against him over the past two years for participating in protests against the incumbent Left government.

The ‘I Group’ suspects that political motives, rather than genuine concerns over communal equations, were instrumental in diminishing Abin Varkey’s chances for the top leadership role. Adding to the internal dynamics, speculation is rife regarding the appointment of Binu Chulliyil, who previously served as the Youth Congress National General Secretary, to the position of State Working President.

Meanwhile, the ‘Shafi faction’ appears confident in its efforts to install O.J. Janeesh in the presidential seat, a position left vacant after Rahul Mankootathil’s resignation amid earlier controversies. Reports suggest ongoing discussions for the appointments of Jomon Jose from Kasaragod, a trusted ally of Shafi Parambil and the Youth Congress Organizational Affairs General Secretary, and Anu Thaj, a nominee from the working committee put forth by Kodikunnil Suresh, as Youth Congress Working Presidents.

However, the ‘K.C. Venugopal faction’ interprets these moves as an attempt to diminish the influence and stature associated with Binu Chulliyil’s new role. The Congress leadership, on its part, believes it has successfully placated the ‘A Group’ by including K.M. Abhijith, who had also vied for the presidential post, in the national committee. This strategic inclusion is seen as a way to maintain factional balance and unity within the party.