Former Kerala health minister KK Shailaja, contesting as a Left Democratic Front candidate from Vadakara constituency in the Lok Sabha election 2024, firmly denied allegations by Congress linking her to the recent bomb blast in Kannur’s Panoor. In an interview with Kumkum Chadha of Hindustan Times, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader stated she had no association with the individuals accused in the case, emphasizing that the incident was unrelated to her and involved a fireworks mishap.
Shailaja, popularly known as the ‘rockstar health minister’ for her effective management of Kerala’s Covid-19 response, dismissed any anti-incumbency sentiment in the state. She highlighted her contributions to improving healthcare, modernizing schools, and providing housing during her tenure. Despite her notable performance, she was not retained as health minister when the CPI(M)-led coalition secured a second consecutive term in 2021.
When asked about her potential victimhood to her success, Shailaja referred to Mother Teresa’s quote on humility, indicating that her achievements and criticisms don’t affect her self-perception. She also responded to concerns about her age versus the youth appeal of her opponents, stating that effectiveness in working for society and maintaining democratic, secular policies are more important than age.
Shailaja expressed confidence that the CPI(M) could reclaim the Vadakara seat, which the party held from 1996 until the Congress won it in the last election. She emphasized the campaign’s focus on development and her belief that voters will recognize the Left Front government’s achievements.
Regarding her potential move to Delhi, Shailaja clarified that it would not be a punishment but an opportunity to work for her party at a national level. She highlighted the differences between parliamentary and assembly elections, noting that the previous election saw the UDF positioning itself as an alternative to the BJP at the Centre. Shailaja reiterated the Left’s commitment to secularism, democracy, and socialism, expressing hope that the voting pattern would shift in their favor this time.
Shailaja, 67, is competing against Congress leader Shafi Parambil, 41, a UDF candidate, and Praphul Krishnan, 38, of the Bharatiya Janata Party. The Vadakara constituency, a coastal city in Kozhikode district, held its voting on April 26 (Phase 2), with results to be announced on June 4.
