Wayanad, 23 Feb (H.S.):In a significant political development ahead of the Assembly elections, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has announced N.V. Prakruthi as its candidate from the Sultan Bathery constituency in Wayanad district. Prakruthi, a poet and social activist hailing from the tribal community, is set to become one of the first transgender leaders from an Adivasi background to contest from the region.

The announcement was made during a party convention held on Sunday, where senior state leaders introduced Prakruthi as the party’s nominee for the constituency. The formal declaration by the national leadership is expected after the completion of candidate selection in other constituencies across the state.

A native of Noolpuzha Naykkatti, Prakruthi has been actively involved in social causes, particularly those concerning tribal rights, gender justice, and marginalised communities. Known locally for literary contributions as a poet and for grassroots activism, Prakruthi’s candidature is being viewed as a symbolic as well as strategic move by the party to project inclusivity and social representation.

Party leaders at the convention described the decision as a reflection of AAP’s commitment to giving political space to underrepresented sections of society. They said Prakruthi’s life journey and public engagement make her a strong voice for social change in Sultan Bathery, a constituency with a significant tribal population.

Political observers note that the announcement adds a new dimension to the electoral contest in the hill district, where issues such as land rights, livelihood, environmental protection, and tribal welfare are expected to dominate the campaign.

With this move, AAP has signalled its intent to broaden its social base in Kerala by fielding candidates from diverse and historically marginalised backgrounds.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman