Anvar eyes IUML ladder to UDF; decision after discussion within coalition, says Sadiq Ali Thangal

TRIGGERING speculation about his UDF entry, Nilambur MLA P V Anvar on Tuesday called on key front leaders -- IUML stalwarts Panakkad Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal and P K Kunhalikutty, even as some Congress leaders raised concerns over his 'homecoming'.

- EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE @Kochi

Anvar met Thangal at his residence in Panakkad and Kunhalikutty at his Karathode home. Though all three denied having discussed Anvar's potential entry into the UDF, their later statements suggested the opposite.

After the meeting, Thangal said any decision on Anvar's entry into the UDF could be taken only after discussions within the coalition. The Opposition front would take a collective decision on the matter after those discussions, he added. Thangal emphasized that all possible measures would be taken to strengthen the UDF.

"The proposed bill to amend the Forest Act will create problems for the people. The government should rethink. The issues raised by Anvar are valid, and the IUML will take up such matters that affect the public," Thangal said.