Overview
- Sudhakaran confirmed he did not renew CPI(M) membership and announced an independent bid in the CPI(M) stronghold of Ambalappuzha.
- He said he has not sought backing from the UDF or any party and pledged to uphold Communist ideals while contesting on his own.
- CPI(M) leaders called the move unfortunate and urged reconsideration, while the Alappuzha district secretary insisted the party had treated him with respect.
- Local CPI(M) workers put up posters labeling him a traitor, police arranged security near his residence, and the Special Branch is tracking political visitors.
- He cited sidelining and personal attacks for his decision and said his campaign will target corruption, as observers assess potential vote shifts in Alappuzha.