Kerala: PV Anvar resigns as Nilambur MLA
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Anvar submits resignation to Speaker A.N. Shamseer | Photo Credit: ANI
Thiruvananthapuram: P.V. Anvar, the Independent MLA backed by the Left, officially resigned from the Kerala Assembly on Monday, signaling his estrangement from the Pinarayi Vijayan-led government.
Anvar submitted his resignation letter to Speaker A.N. Shamseer after walking into the Speaker’s office earlier in the morning. The move comes amidst rising speculation about his political future and alignment with the Trinamool Congress (TMC).
The buzz surrounding Anvar’s resignation began last week when he reportedly flew to Kolkata to meet West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee. Heightening anticipation, Anvar posted on social media on Sunday, promising significant announcements on Monday. True to his word, he arrived at the Kerala Assembly premises with the MLA signboard on his car discreetly masked. After a brief meeting with the Speaker, Anvar tendered his resignation, confirming the decision publicly.
This development follows the TMC’s announcement that Anvar has been appointed as the coordinator of its Kerala unit. Political observers view his resignation as a preemptive move to counter potential disqualification from the Assembly by the Left. The decision now necessitates a by-election in the Nilambur constituency, given that the current Assembly’s term has over a year remaining.
Anvar first secured the Nilambur seat in Malappuram district as a Left-backed Independent in 2016 and successfully retained it in 2021. However, his relationship with the Vijayan government soured last September, leading to vocal criticism of the Chief Minister and his policies.
Tensions escalated last week when Anvar was arrested for allegedly damaging a forest office. The arrest followed his protest against the government after a man in his constituency was killed by a wild elephant. Anvar spent a day in jail before securing bail, further amplifying his discontent with the administration.
His resignation adds pressure on the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), which has reportedly asked him to delay his entry into their fold.
Reacting to the resignation, CPI(M) state secretary M.V. Govindan dismissed its political significance, suggesting that Anvar is likely heading towards the UDF. “His resignation will have no impact on Kerala politics,” Govindan remarked.
Anvar’s departure marks a dramatic turn in Kerala’s political landscape, with the Nilambur constituency now preparing for a by-election amidst the fallout from his departure.
With IANS inputs