Ottapalam, Kerala: Former CPM leader P. K. Shashi, who is contesting as a UDF candidate from Ottapalam, has been allotted the ‘Hand’ symbol, the official symbol of the Indian National Congress. The move is seen as a strategic decision by the United Democratic Front (UDF) to prevent vote leakage and avoid confusion among voters.
Party sources indicated that assigning the widely recognized ‘Hand’ symbol would help counter the impact of dummy candidates and ensure that votes are not diverted due to symbol similarities. With Ottapalam expected to witness a closely fought contest, even a small split in votes could influence the final result.
P. K. Shashi, who had earlier parted ways with the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM), is now seeking electoral support under the UDF banner, adding a new dimension to the political battle in the constituency. Local leaders, including A. Satheesh, are actively campaigning as election activities intensify.
The decision to allot the ‘Hand’ symbol is expected to strengthen the UDF’s position in Ottapalam, as the front aims to consolidate its vote base and secure a decisive victory in the upcoming election.
