KOCHI: A constituency long considered a stronghold of the UDF, Aluva is set to witness a keen electoral contest as sitting MLA Anwar Sadath is taking on senior CPM leader and former Aroor MLA A M Ariff.
While Anwar is a popular leader, voters’ opinions appear divided between continuity and a call for change. As the state gears up for another election, the public demands better development projects in Aluva.
“I wish Ariff wins. Anwar Sadath represented the constituency for 15 years. However, he does not have an important project to highlight. Despite its rapid growth, residents feel Aluva lacks major projects. It needs a change,” said an autorickshaw driver who did not wish to be named. Aluva has elected a Left candidate to the assembly only twice since 1957. Anwar was elected in 2011, defeating CPM’s A M Youssaf, the then sitting MLA who had toppled UDF’s six-term MLA, K Mohammed Ali, in 2006.
Jose, a 72-year-old lottery vendor, said: “I have applied for a government welfare scheme and tried to contact officials and representatives. However, there was no response. With inflation and the delay in social security schemes, people like us are struggling. It has been 10 years. Now, the UDF should come to power in the state. ” He said Anwar is an accessible leader. “We often see him around. Whenever there is an issue, he visits and takes action,” he added.
“The condition of the Aluva market is miserable. Often, there is a huge traffic block from Pulinchodu to Desom. The MLA should take the initiative to resolve these issues,” said a resident of Nedumbassery panchayat.
The constituency comprises Aluva municipality and Chengamanad, Choornikkara, Edathala, Kanjoor, Keezhmad, Nedumbassery and Sreemoolanagaram panchayats. The NDA has fielded Brahmaraj M A.
“There is a significant Muslim and Christian population in Aluva. Also, like every other constituency in Ernakulam district, Aluva always supports the UDF. Aluva municipality and a majority of the panchayats are also ruled by the UDF. The CPM has fielded a prominent leader like Ariff to make the contest tighter,” a local CPM leader said.