Star campaigners line up as Nilambur bypoll

MALAPPURAM: Campaigning for the June 19 Nilambur bypoll has entered its final week, prompting all major contenders including independent candidate P V Anvar to bring in star campaigners in a bid to strengthen their outreach and sway voters.

Anvar, who is contesting as an independent, is looking to make a splash by roping in Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders, starting with Yusuf Pathan, MP and former Indian cricketer. Pathan is expected to arrive in Nilambur next Monday, and will participate in roadshows across Nilambur Town, Edakkara, Chungathara, and Vazhikkadavu. Anvar’s supporters believe that Pathan’s presence will generate excitement, particularly among Kerala’s large base of cricket fans.