Alappuzha, 06 May (H.S.):SNDP Yogam General Secretary Vellappally Natesan on Wednesday praised senior Congress leaders VD Satheesan, Ramesh Chennithala and KC Venugopal, while describing the United Democratic Front’s emphatic victory in the Kerala Assembly elections as a “political tsunami.”

Speaking to reporters in Alappuzha, Natesan said Leader of the Opposition VD Satheesan had delivered an impressive performance in recent years and had emerged as one of the leading contenders for the Chief Minister’s post. He also claimed that Satheesan enjoyed strong support from the Indian Union Muslim League within the UDF.

“A tsunami has happened in Kerala. The UDF achieved an unexpected and massive victory,” Natesan said.

He particularly praised Congress general secretary KC Venugopal, calling him one of the most influential leaders in the national Congress leadership. According to Natesan, Venugopal has considerable authority within the party and played a decisive role in the Congress’ electoral success in Kerala.

“KC is brilliant and highly capable. After Sonia Gandhi and the Congress president, he is among the most influential leaders in the party. His words carry enormous weight in Congress circles,” Natesan said.

He credited Venugopal with resolving internal disputes during candidate selection and helping the Congress present united candidates in constituencies where disagreements had surfaced. Natesan further remarked that Venugopal possessed the ability to govern Kerala even while remaining active in national politics.

However, he expressed doubts about whether Venugopal would return to state politics, saying national politics offered larger opportunities compared to “small Kerala.”

Natesan also praised senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala, describing him as an experienced politician with organisational ability and leadership qualities capable of carrying everyone along.

“He is a seasoned leader with political maturity and administrative experience. Many leaders who once worked under him have now become major leaders themselves,” Natesan said.

Responding to criticism that he was responsible for the Left Democratic Front’s defeat, Natesan rejected the allegation and denied being anti-Muslim. He said certain groups were attempting to weaken the SNDP Yogam for political reasons.

At the same time, he praised senior IUML leader PK Kunhalikutty as a moderate and respected leader who received support cutting across caste and religious lines.

When reporters reminded him of his earlier statement that he would resign if the UDF crossed 100 seats, Natesan responded humorously, saying, “I might have said many things like that.”

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman