Palakkad MP VK Sreekandan Confirms Rahul Mankootathil’s Continued Congress Membership and UDF Standing
Palakkad, Kerala – Setting the record straight amidst ongoing discussions, Palakkad Member of Parliament V.K. Sreekandan today affirmed that Youth Congress leader Rahul Mankootathil has not been expelled from the Congress party and continues to serve as a United Democratic Front (UDF) MLA. Sreekandan’s statement sought to clarify the confusion surrounding Mankootathil’s party status, particularly regarding his active participation in political campaigns.
Addressing reporters in Palakkad, MP Sreekandan vocally questioned the source of “unrest” over Mankootathil’s actions. He asserted that there is no impropriety in Rahul Mankootathil actively campaigning to ensure the victory of UDF candidates. Sreekandan underscored that Mankootathil’s current situation is a temporary suspension, not an expulsion, from the party. “He was only suspended from the party. It is merely a temporary measure, and the suspension period has not yet concluded,” Sreekandan clarified.
The Palakkad MP further emphasized that despite the suspension, Rahul Mankootathil retains his official position as a UDF MLA. He elaborated that the suspension implies Mankootathil’s non-participation in formal party discussions and official meetings, but it does not sever his ties with the Congress or the UDF alliance. This distinction is crucial, as it allows Mankootathil to continue his work for the front’s electoral success without violating the terms of his suspension.
Sreekandan’s comments come at a time when political alignments and party discipline are under close scrutiny in Kerala. His unequivocal support for Mankootathil aims to project a united front within the Congress-led UDF, dismissing any internal strife that might be perceived by the public or rival political entities.
In a significant political gesture, MP Sreekandan also publicly welcomed Palakkad Municipal Chairperson Prameela Sasidharan and councilor Priya Ajayan to the Congress fold. Both individuals are currently serving under the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) banner but are reportedly facing disagreements and discord with their party’s leadership. This invitation by a prominent Congress MP indicates a strategic move by the party to consolidate its influence at the local self-government level in Palakkad, potentially capitalizing on internal dissensions within the BJP.
The recent statements from MP V.K. Sreekandan provide clarity on the political standing of Rahul Mankootathil and signal the Congress party’s proactive approach to strengthening its base in Palakkad. By clarifying internal party matters and extending invitations to key local figures from opposing camps, the Congress-led UDF is positioning itself for upcoming political challenges and aiming to present a robust and unified presence in the region.