C.K. Saseendran is a star in his own right and none needs an introduction to this man, who is a favourite among social media users.
The man, known for his simplicity, is better known as the MLA from Wayanad, who wears no footwear. He has been following this simple lifestyle much before his stint as MLA. He lives with a focus on agriculture and politics, travels by train and bus (he has not taken custody of his official vehicle yet) and is one of the rare politicians, who is facing threats from Maoists because of his enthusiasm in solving issues of the tribal people in Wayanad.
How do you respond to being known as the MLA who wears no footwear?
I have been like this for a long time. I have not used footwear. However, that does not mean that I would recommend others too discard their footwear. They need to wear what is comfortable for them, however giving luxury a pass would be nice.

Is your victory in Wayanad because of your personal charisma?
I won because the party and cadres stood by me. Simplicity could have been a factor, but that does not overshadow the movement I represent. There were opponents who predicted the worse if I came to power, but the people accepted me.
What are your plans as MLA?
Wayanad has an agrarian culture, but it is now being used for trade. I would like to change that. Farmers need to get good prices for their produces and they should not be exploited by merchants and middlemen. We have a plan to procure farmed products and then market them under a brand. We would like to popularise other products on the lines of Wayanad pepper and turmeric.
The next priority would be the development of the tribal people. They should be given adequate nutrition, education and health. Their standards of living have to be raised at par with the so-called developed society. Many tribal people learn in Malayalam medium even though it is not their mother tongue. That should change.

What is Carbon-neutral district?
Carbon gases pollute our environment. As we cannot control the level of carbon output because of practical reasons, we are promoting the idea of planting more trees that can suck the polluting gases. The new generation must be taught to plant a tree when they purchase a bike and so on. We must produce oxygen as much as we produce carbon gases.
Your experiences before and after elections?
The Bishop of Jacobite Church, Geevarghese Kurilose, in a Facebook post suggested that he saw divinity in me. I consider that as his personal belief. However, when we met during the oath-taking ceremony, he touched my feet, humbling me. I told him that he would never have any reason to repent his action of bestowing the honour on me. After winning the elections, Suresh Gopi had called me first to congratulate me. Mammootty and Renjith had also called.

Are people's representatives moving away from the people?
The MLA should not tower over the people, in fact the MLA should be a subordinate of the people. MLA's should respect the people because it is the people who have elected him or her to office. Even though one is busy, an MLA should find time to hear the problems of the people. If the MLA hears a petition, it would bring a lot of relief to people. Those who serve the people with humility are the real representatives of the people.