M Swaraj Pays Tribute to Kunhali, Anchors LDF Campaign in Nilambur’s Legacy of Struggle

Amidst the chaos and confusion unfolding in the Nilambur by-election, CPI M continues its campaign with clarity and purpose. Their candidate, M Swaraj, is approaching the political battle with remarkable composure and emotional maturity, traits expected of a true public leader.
Kicking off the second day of his campaign from his hometown of Vellimuttath in Pothukallu Panchayat, Swaraj invoked the legacy of two time MLA, Comrade Karikadan Kunhali. He reminded the public of Kunhali’s role in leading land struggles in Nilambur, particularly under the slogan: “Mannillathavarkk oru pidi mannum, tala chaykkan idamillathavarkk oru chettakudilum, nediyeduth Nilambur kaatil angam vettiya dheera sakhave Kunhali... ningal marikkunnila” (

("To those without land, a handful of soil; to those without shelter, a small hut to rest their heads. Brave comrade Kunhali, who stood tall and fought in the vast forests of Nilambur... you will never die.")
Kunhali, a former CPI M MLA from Nilambur, was a fearless leader of the landless and oppressed. He led historic agitations in the 1950s that resulted in the redistribution of land to hundreds of landless families. His bold activism led to his brutal assassination on July 28, 1969, when he was shot dead by a hired gunman, reportedly orchestrated by political rivals, making him the only sitting MLA in Kerala to be martyred in such a manner. Swaraj recalled that there is even a colony in Amarambalam named after him, Kunjali Colony, as a tribute to his sacrifice.
Swaraj, currently a CPI M Secretariat member and the Resident Editor of Deshabhimani, is no stranger to the public stage. A former Tripunithura MLA and ex-state secretary of both the SFI and DYFI, he is the face of the Left in political debates across Kerala. His composed presence in legislative discussions and news debates has earned him respect even from ideological opponents, many of whom acknowledge his vast reading and photographic memory.
At the LDF convention, Swaraj confidently stated that the people of Nilambur have already made up their minds to vote for the LDF, a sentiment reflected in the large turnout at public meetings and rallies across the constituency.
He also highlighted Nilambur’s unique place in Kerala’s social and historical landscape. “Nilambur is a secular land, even today. A closer look at its history makes that abundantly clear,” Swaraj said. He pointed out that Nilambur was once a princely state that resisted British rule.
He further celebrated the cultural contributions of Nilambur, citing E K Aymu, who wrote the acclaimed play “Ijj Nalloru Mansanaavan Nokk,” which promoted humanist values. Aymu’s daughter, E K Ayisha, attended the LDF convention in Mayyanad yesterday, marking a symbolic continuity with her father’s legacy. “E K Aymu was a pioneer in using art and literature as tools of social transformation,” Swaraj noted, also mentioning figures like Dr. Suman, K G Unni, and Nilambur Ayisha, who followed similar paths. “I even visited Nilambur Ayisha in the hospital,” he added, calling attention to her legacy.

M Swaraj visiting Nilambur Ayisha during her hospital stay

When asked by the media about accusations that he did not visit Kavalappara during the devastating landslide, Swaraj firmly rejected the claim. “I was one of the first people to reach the site,” he said. “That experience was so intense, it deserves a book of its own.”

As the Congress camp continues to grapple with internal rifts and candidate controversies, the LDF’s campaign, anchored in historical memory, cultural pride, and grounded leadership, marches ahead with confidence under Swaraj’s stewardship.