Dalit Activist Sunny M Kapicadu Emerges as Surprise UDF Candidate in Vaikom

In a surprising political development, the name of prominent dalit activist Sunny M Kapicadu is circulating as a potential surprise candidate for the United Democratic Front (UDF) in the Vaikom assembly constituency in Kottayam district. This move could potentially disrupt the decades-long stronghold of the Communist Party of India (CPI) in this politically significant seat.

Political Maneuvering and Candidate Considerations

According to sources within the Congress party, which is a key constituent of the UDF, Kapicadu has formally expressed his interest in contesting from Vaikom to opposition leader V D Satheesan. While no final decision has been announced, Kapicadu confirmed in a recent media interview that the UDF is actively considering him as an independent candidate for the upcoming assembly elections.

"Some UDF leaders have communicated this possibility to me," Kapicadu stated, adding significant weight to the speculation. He elaborated on his potential candidacy by criticizing the current state government, saying, "The Pinarayi Vijayan-led government has taken wrong decisions and shied away from taking crucial decisions at important times. This political activity represents an important opportunity."

Ideological Stance and Political Strategy

Addressing concerns about potential ideological compromises, Kapicadu firmly declared his commitment to his principles. "I am an Ambedkarite and I will not leave my ideology when I cooperate with the UDF," he asserted. He framed potential collaboration with the UDF as strategic, explaining, "Uniting for a common cause represents the politics of frontal politics. The only option before me for this purpose is the UDF. So, if they present an offer, it must be accepted. I consider this a political responsibility."

Historical Context and Electoral Significance

The Vaikom constituency presents a fascinating electoral history that underscores the significance of this potential candidacy:

In the 16 assembly elections held so far, the CPI has secured victory 13 times
The Congress party has managed to win the constituency only three times
The last Congress candidate to triumph in Vaikom was K K Balakrishnan back in 1991
The constituency has been reserved for scheduled castes since 1977

Currently, the constituency is represented by C K Asha of the CPI, who is serving her second consecutive term. Political observers suggest that the CPI is highly likely to field Asha for a third time, especially if the UDF nominates a surprise candidate like Kapicadu.

Broader Candidate Landscape

The UDF is reportedly considering multiple candidates for the Vaikom seat:

K Binimon of Congress, who previously served as president of Thalayazhom panchayat
Vijayamma Babu of Congress, who won from the Velloor division of Kottayam district panchayat

Meanwhile, the CPI is also evaluating their options, with P Pradeep, a member of their district executive committee, being considered as a potential candidate alongside the incumbent Asha.

This developing political scenario in Vaikom represents a potentially significant shift in Kerala's electoral dynamics, with a prominent dalit activist possibly challenging the established political order in a constituency with a long history of communist dominance.