UDF troubles continue in Central Travancore

Trouble continues for the United Democratic Front in Central Travancore as two more leaders – Johnny Nellore of the Kerala Congress and Babu George of the Congress walk out on their respective parties.

Mr. Nellore, who P.J. Joseph-led Kerala Congress, will join the upcoming Nationalist People’s Party. Addressing the media in Kochi on Wednesday, Mr. Nellore criticized the UDF for its inability to address the concerns of the farming community.

The NPP, being launched with the active support of a former bishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, seeks to work closely with the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance.

Former Pathanamthitta District Congress Committee President Mr. George’s decision to quit the Congress marks the culmination of his long-standing tussle with the party leadership. Mr. George, who was closely associated with the ‘A’ group in the party, was under suspension for alleged violation of party discipline.

Announcing his decision to quit the party, Mr George accused Pathanamthitta MP Anto Antony of conspiring against him.

A few days ago, the UDF lost Victor T. Thomas, a senior KC leader and chairman of the alliance in Pathanamthitta