PATHANAMTHITTA: Pathanamthitta, historically contested by Congress and CPI(M), braces for a three-way battle in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Prime Minister Modi’s kickoff of his campaign from this southern constituency reflects BJP’s strategic focus on the region.
Engaging with over 150 voters ahead of the Election Commission’s polling announcement, it’s evident that a triangular showdown awaits in this hilly district. Dominated by Hindus and Christians, with a minority Muslim presence, it’s shaping up to be an intriguing political arena.
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Incumbent Congress MP Anto Antony holds sway in small towns and Christian-Muslim strongholds, while CPI(M)’s Thomas Issac garners support from rural hinterlands and marginalized communities. Notably, NDA’s Anil Antony finds favour among churchgoers and Hindu voters in urban centres like Pathanamthitta town, Adoor, and Thiruvalla.
“The Prime Minister’s visit signals commitment to our constituency. Anil shows promise and can drive development,” remarked Jose Mathew, a member of the Malankara St Joseph Church Federation in Pathanamthitta town. Conversely, Anganwadi workers from areas like Elanthur, Cherukol, and Kodumon view CPI(M)’s Thomas Issac as their champion, attributing their increased welfare pensions to his advocacy.
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“Issac sir has been instrumental in elevating our standards of living. He raised our welfare pension from Rs 500 to Rs 2500. We haven’t seen Modi’s impact,” stated Nirmala, an Anganwadi worker from Cherukol, Pathanamthitta. In the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Congress’ Anto Antony clinched victory with 37.11% of the vote share, followed by CPI(M)’s Veena George at 32.80% and BJP’s K Surendran at 28.9%.
The New Indian team’s interactions followed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent public address in Pathanamthitta.