Though the itinerary has not been finalised, state BJP leaders told Manoramaonline that Biplab Kumar has confirmed his visit. Thiruvananthapuram: In an attempt to replicate the ‘Tripura model’ in Chengannur by-poll, the BJP has lined up the chief minister of that state, Biplab Kumar Deb, for campaigning in the constituency. As BJP Tripura president, Biplab Kumar had created a massive upset and came to power ending the quarter century-rule of the CPM.
Kerala leaders of the party had suggested to the national leaders that Biplab Kumar would help the party improve its chances in Chengannur, following which the central leadership instructed him to campaign in Chengannur.
Though the itinerary has not been finalised, state BJP leaders told Manoramaonline that Biplab Kumar has confirmed his visit. He will spend two days in Kerala. After reaching the party state headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram, he will hold discussions with state leaders. He will later take part in several election-related programmes in Chengannur.
The BJP is, in fact, emulating the tactic employed by CPM in Chengannur during the previous elections. Former chief minister of Tripura Manik Sarkar had been the star campaigner of the CPM on several occasions.
The CPM had highlighted the simplicity of Sarkar to attract voters. But with Sarkar out of power, the BJP is bringing his opponent from Tripura Biplab Kumar, who is being projected as a popular leader who captured a CPM citadel for the saffron party.
Several other BJP leaders will also reach Chengannur, but a final decision will be made clear only after the election date is announced. Before that, BJP has decided to hold talks with ally BDJS in a bid to placate the party. BJP leaders said that an announcement regarding the agreement fulfilling the promises given to BDJS would be made soon.
