P.V. Anwar Rules Out Joining UDF, Says He Has No Money to Contest Nilambur By-Poll

Nilambur, Kerala: Former MLA and independent candidate P.V. Anwar has publicly ruled out the possibility of joining the United Democratic Front (UDF) under the leadership of V.D. Satheesan. He alleged that UDF leaders have deliberately sidelined him and claimed that some are acting on behalf of “hidden forces.”
Speaking at a press conference, Anwar said, “Some UDF leaders never wanted me with them. They are working for other interests.” He sharply criticised Satheesan, stating, “Satheesan’s arrogance has crossed all limits. I will not join a UDF led by him.”
Anwar also alleged that he was denied a meeting with senior Congress leader K.C. Venugopal despite waiting for three hours. “I was told people wouldn’t vote for him without Anwar,” he said. He added that his proposal to induct the Trinamool Congress as a UDF ally and his request for a seat were dismissed. “They even asked me to contest from Beypore instead. That’s when I decided to step back,” he said.
On contesting the Nilambur by-election, Anwar confirmed his interest but expressed financial constraints. “I want to contest, but I simply don’t have the money. That’s the reality,” he said.
He also issued a veiled criticism against UDF candidate Aryadan Shoukath, stating that the candidate remained silent even when he (Anwar) was jailed. “I will continue to speak—even if I had joined the UDF. That’s what they couldn’t tolerate,” he added.
Commenting on how he was treated by the UDF leadership, Anwar said, “For five months, I’ve been dragged along like something tied to their tail. People I considered friends are now with the enemy.” He reiterated that his criticism would continue: “I haven’t decided to stop. That’s not going to happen.”