The contours of the poll battle in Kerala have become clear as the Congress, Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), and Kerala Congress have finalized their candidates for the upcoming assembly polls.
The Congress has released a list of 55 candidates, while its ally IUML has announced 25 candidates. The Kerala Congress has fielded eight candidates.
The ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) has announced 130 candidates, its main challenger the United Democratic Front (UDF) 95, and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) 75.
The LDF is hoping for a third consecutive term, while the UDF is looking to regain power. The Congress has dropped one sitting lawmaker, Palakkad legislator Rahul Mamkootathil, who is embroiled in multiple sexual assault charges.
The party has fielded 19 sitting lawmakers, including state unit chief Sunny Joseph, Leader of the Opposition VD Satheesan, and senior leader Ramesh Chennithala.
The IUML has fielded two women candidates for the first time in its history, Muslim Youth League state secretary Fathima Thahliya and national assistant secretary Jayanthi Rajan.
The Kerala Congress has fielded Apu John Joseph, son of party chairman PJ Joseph, in the Thodupuzha constituency in Idukki district.
The assembly polls in Kerala are scheduled to take place on April 9.
