Hello
LDF is fielding CPI leader Pannyan Raveendran against Chandrasekhar in Thiruvananthapuram.
Tharoor, who has been representing Thiruvananthapuram for the past 15 years in the Lok Sabha, is eyeing a record fourth term.
CPI, CPM say the decision to field 2 national leaders goes against the bloc's agreement.
The state government has pension dues of six months pending. It requires Rs 900 crore to clear a month's arrears.
Pannyan Raveendran, VS Sunil Kumar and CA Arun Kumar are the other candidates in fray.
For Thrissur, the CPI is favouring former minister VS Sunil Kumar.
CPM will now undertake further discussions on the matter within its Politburo, with a review expected post-Lok Sabha elections.
The CPI leader said DMK, NCP and RJD are likely to join the protest against the Centre's alleged neglect of the state.
Two of them – Civil Supplies Minister G R Anil and Animal Husbandry Minister J Chinchurani – have openly expressed their displeasure, even if not in strong and bitter terms.
In Thrissur, the CPI may nominate former minister VS Sunilkumar. A tight triangular fight is anticipated, with Congress potentially fielding the sitting MP TN Prathapan and the BJP considering actor and former MP Suresh Gopi.