Nilambur by-election: Candidate discussions heat up in Congress; Shoukath emerges as a potential contender.

Congress has intensified discussions to finalize its candidate for the Nilambur by-election. In preliminary consultations held in Kozhikode, Aryadan Shoukath and V.S. Joy have emerged as the primary contenders, with Shoukath currently being the frontrunner. Senior leaders including K.C. Venugopal, V.D. Satheesan, Ramesh Chennithala, and K. Sudhakaran participated in the talks.

Nilambur is a constituency the UDF lost in 2016. Shoukath, who contested as the successor of Aryadan Mohammed, was unsuccessful at the time. Now, the Congress is making a determined effort to reclaim the seat. V.S. Joy, the Malappuram DCC president, is expected to receive support from both the Christian community and the Indian Union Muslim League. His close ties with League leaders and his active involvement in UDF activities in Malappuram are seen as favorable factors.

However, the legacy of Aryadan Mohammed gives Shoukath a distinct advantage. Congress leaders believe the current political climate is favorable for the party.