Kerala Assembly Polls 2026: April 9 marks poll battle and emotional tribute for Jose K. Mani in Pala

As Kerala heads to the polls on April 9, the date carries special significance for Jose K. Mani, chairman of Kerala Congress (M), both personally and politically. It marks the death anniversary of his father and Kerala Congress patriarch, K.M. Mani, who had represented the Pala assembly constituency for over five decades until his passing in 2019.

Seven years on, Pala is once again the stage for his son’s second bid to reclaim this key central Travancore seat, long regarded as the heart of farmer-focused politics championed by the Kerala Congress factions. “We are contesting the election politically, but this date is also deeply symbolic. Seven years ago, K.M. Mani passed away, leaving Pala without its guiding leader. Our effort now is to fill this void and restore Pala to its old glory,” said Mr. Mani, who is contesting as the LDF candidate from the seat.

In an interview with The Hindu, Mr. Mani highlighted KC(M)’s well-defined role in raising key legislative and policy matters during the outgoing LDF government’s tenure. By making targeted interventions on public issues, the party has positioned itself as a constructive opposition within the Left Democratic Front.

“From wildlife concerns and land assignment issues to buffer zone regulations and the distress of natural rubber growers, KC(M) consistently addressed critical matters,” he said. “While the United Democratic Front focused mainly on allegations, KC(M) acted as a constructive opposition, raising issues without disrupting governance,” he said.

Acknowledging a generational shift within Kerala Congress parties, Mr. Mani admitted that migration trends, first to the Gulf and now to Western countries for education, have affected the traditional cadre base. “But new areas offer growth potential. For example, KC(M) reached out to coastal communities to support their fight for rights over the sea, which has been a significant success. In a State with a 550-km coastline, this is an area worth exploring,” he noted.

KC(M)’s campaign, he added, will focus on both the LDF government’s developmental achievements and pressing issues affecting daily life. “Take the stray dog menace, for example. KC(M) has a clear plan to address it and much work remains,” he said.

On consistent attempts by right-wing Sangh Parivar forces to expand into Central Travancore, Mr. Mani said Kerala remains a stronghold that has resisted such growth. “People are aware of attacks on Christians elsewhere. This year, the JEE exams fall on Maundy Thursday and Easter Sunday, major Catholic observances, which seems like a deliberate provocation. In Chhattisgarh, Christians have even been denied the right to a dignified funeral,” he explained.

He also dismissed suggestions that minority consolidation would influence the upcoming assembly elections. “Our focus is on how welfare and development initiatives touch the daily lives of individuals, regardless of their community,” he said.