• Source:JND
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KC Venugopal, a prominent figure in Indian politics, has emerged as an influential figure within the Indian National Congress (INC). With his roots in the Alappuzha district of Kerala, Venugopal has marked his political journey with numerous significant contributions, both at the state and national levels.

KC Venugopal, a leader of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) and general secretary (organisation) of the All-India Congress Committee (AICC), has been chosen as the candidate for the Alappuzha constituency in Kerala for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in 2024 by the United Democratic Front (UDF). This move is seen as an attempt by the UDF to reclaim their previously lost stronghold, while the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is hoping for a change in the constituency.

Venugopal, who is a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha representing Rajasthan, has previously served as the representative for Alappuzha in the Lower House for two terms between 2009 and 2019. He did not participate in the previous elections, citing his responsibilities within the party organisation. In the 2019 General Elections, the Congress-led UDF emerged victorious in 19 out of 20 Lok Sabha seats in Kerala, with the exception of Alappuzha. However, with the presence of Mr. Venugopal, a prominent figure, the Congress party is aiming to reclaim the seat from the Communist Party of India (Marxist)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF).

Early Life and Education

The 4th of February 1963 marked the birth of KC Venugopal in the serene town of Payyanur, situated in the Kannur District of Kerala. Born to Kunjukrishnan Nambi and Janaki Amma, Venugopal spent his formative years soaking in the cultural and socio-political environment of his native town.

Venugopal's inclination towards academics led him to the University of Calicut, where he pursued a Master's degree in Mathematics. His love for numbers did not eclipse his growing interest in social issues, which later paved the way for his political career.

Political Journey

Venugopal's political journey commenced from the grassroots level, as he became actively involved in the Student Movement of the Indian National Congress. Due to his unwavering dedication and leadership skills, he was bestowed with the responsibility of the State President of the Kerala Students Union and later, the State President of the Indian Youth Congress.

Ascend to Kerala Legislative Assembly

The year 1996 marked a significant turn in Venugopal's political career as he was elected to the Kerala Legislative Assembly from the Alappuzha Constituency. His successful tenure was reflected in his re-election in the 2001 and 2006 Assembly elections.

In the Oommen Chandy Ministry, Venugopal served as the Minister for Dewaswom and Tourism from 2004-06. His dedication towards his role and his constituency resonated with the public, earning him a victory in the General Elections to Lok Sabha from Alappuzha Constituency in 2009.

Transition to National Politics

The victory in the General Elections marked Venugopal's entry into the national political arena. He held the esteemed position of the Minister of State for Civil Aviation & Ministry of Power in the UPA Government. His proficient handling of the responsibilities led to his appointment as the General Secretary of AICC in 2017, with an additional charge of Karnataka.

Current Political Stance

Venugopal continues to hold significant positions within the party and the government. He is a Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, elected from Rajasthan. He was given the additional charge of the general secretary of the organisation. His unwavering commitment to the party and his leadership abilities have led him to become a respected figure within the Indian National Congress.

Personal Life

KC Venugopal is married to Asha Venugopal and is a proud father to two children. He continues to reside in Alappuzha, Kerala, maintaining a strong connection with his roots. Venugopal's political journey serves as an inspiration for many aspiring politicians. From his humble beginnings to his influential role in national politics, Venugopal's journey is marked by perseverance and commitment to serving people.

Lok Sabha Polls 2024

A Tripartite Contest In Kerala's Alappuzha

The Lok Sabha elections of 2024 in Alappuzha, commonly known as the 'Venice of the East,' is drawing attention due to the nomination of three prominent candidates from leading political parties. Alappuzha, a constituency known for its picturesque backwaters, beaches, and coir industry, has a rich history of oscillating between the CPI(M)-led LDF and the Congress-led UDF. This makes predicting electoral outcomes a challenging task.

The region has also witnessed significant progressive movements in Kerala, contributing to its political relevance. Like its renowned boat racing events, the political tug-of-war in Alappuzha is determined by the pulling power of the participants.

Electoral History Of Alappuzha

The Alappuzha constituency, comprising over nine per cent of SC voters among the 69 per cent Hindu voters and over 19 per cent Christian votes, has sent the LDF to Parliament nine times and the UDF eight times.

In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Alappuzha stood firmly with the LDF under AM Arif, making it a significant stronghold amidst the UDF's sweep. The Congress is not taking this fight lightly and aims to regain its lost ground. The Lok Sabha polls of 2024 in Alappuzha promises to be a closely contested battle with three strong candidates vying for the seat.

Three-Way Battle

The electoral battle in Alappuzha has become more intense with the nomination of K C Venugopal from Congress, AM Ariff from CPI(M), and Sobha Surendran from BJP.

AM Ariff, the sitting MP from CPI(M), is a local figure who grew up in Alappuzha's political landscape. Ariff started his political journey as a student activist with the SFI and gradually rose in the ranks of CPI(M). Despite facing a formidable opponent like Venugopal, Ariff is confident about his victory. He also criticised Rahul Gandhi's decision to contest from Wayanad, arguing that it's not ideal for an outsider to contest in Kerala.

Sobha Surendran, the BJP candidate, is banking on Modi's image and central government projects to woo the voters. She expressed happiness in contesting against Venugopal and vowed to expose the alleged corruption during his previous tenure as MP.

Venugopal is no stranger to Alappuzha. Having represented the constituency in 2009 and 2014, he is now vying for the voters' support by highlighting the alleged failures of the Narendra Modi-led NDA government. Venugopal dismissed allegations from the CPI(M) accusing him of potentially 'donating' a seat to the BJP if elected from Alappuzha. Instead, he emphasised that the primary fight is against the BJP-led NDA.