Ramya Haridas, known for her unique blend of politics and music, has become the first candidate to launch an intense campaign for the upcoming bypolls in the Chelakkara Assembly constituency. She is Congress party’s candidate from Chelakkara.
A former MP representing Alathur from 2019 to 2024, she holds the distinction of being the only female parliamentarian elected from Kerala in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls and the second-ever Dalit woman MP from the state.
Ramya, who lost to now-former minister K Radhakrishnan in the 2024 general elections, faces a new challenge with the upcoming Chelakkara Assembly bypolls. With Radhakrishnan vacating his MLA seat, the by-election is set to be a pivotal moment in her political career.
In conversation with South First, Ramya shares her thoughts on the hurdles she has overcome and her aspirations as she gears up for this crucial electoral contest.
Q: Chelakkara Assembly constituency has elected CPI(M) MLAs for the past 27 years. How challenging will it be for the Congress to regain control?
A: The Chelakkara Assembly constituency falls under the Alathur Lok Sabha constituency. In the last Lok Sabha election, I received significant support from Chelakkara, which has bolstered the party’s confidence in me. That’s why the party has chosen me to contest here.
Moreover, all the Congress workers in the area have already begun their election efforts with great enthusiasm. I’ve felt this momentum from day one. I am confident that Chelakkara will stand with the Congress this time.
Q: Do you focus more on anti-CPI(M), criticism, or development issues during the campaign?
A: Kerala is experiencing a unified sentiment that underscores the need for change. From Kasaragod to Thiruvananthapuram, there is a strong belief among the people that the Congress party will govern Kerala after the 2026 elections. Subsequently, many are eager to support me in Chelakkara.
The current government has become increasingly detached from the needs of the people and is focused on policies that do not prioritise their welfare.
While the party has not yet announced specific areas of focus for my campaign, strategic planning is underway. Once those strategies are finalised, I will engage in subject-based campaigning.
In the meantime, I am visiting my constituents, nurturing the strong bonds I share with them.
Q: As a woman candidate, what preferences or challenges do you anticipate in Chelakkara, considering the severe cyberbullying you faced during the last Lok Sabha elections?
A: I feel incredibly grateful for the intense care, support, and love I have received from the people around me. As a woman, I take great pride in the special attention given to me by mothers and sisters in my constituency during my campaigns.
Every hurdle I’ve overcome has been thanks to the unwavering support of my community, who have acted as a shield against unhealthy criticism.
This time, I look forward to a healthy and positive competition, and I am confident that I will continue to receive the same care and support I’ve enjoyed in the past.
Q: The Muslim community constitutes around 25% of Chelakkara’s population. Do you see this as an advantage for Congress, or could it split the votes?
A: The unique essence of the Congress lies in its unwavering commitment to diversity. It embodies a democratic India that grants all citizens the freedom to believe in any religion and practice their rituals. This inclusive spirit is the foundation upon which India is built, and it is the Congress that champions this freedom.
We have the liberty to eat what we desire and wear what we prefer. To continue safeguarding these freedoms, Congress is actively fighting, with Rahul Gandhi leading this movement.
Thus, everyone who believes in democracy, regardless of whether they belong to a majority or minority, will stand with Congress. This sentiment will resonate strongly in Chelakkara as well.
Q: Anvar’s DMK might field a candidate in Chelakkara. Do you see this as a threat to CPI(M) or Congress?
A: I haven’t observed any discussions on that topic here. If things develop, I’ll respond accordingly, but for now, I have no comments on it.
Q: Priyanka Gandhi’s presence in Wayanad has drawn attention. Do you expect her influence to reflect in other constituencies, similar to when Rahul Gandhi contested from Wayanad in 2019?
A: We are all in high spirits because Priyanka Ji is making her debut in electoral politics here in Kerala. Wayanad holds a special place in Rahul Ji‘s heart, and he has now entrusted it to Priyanka Ji.
For me and Rahul Mamkoottathil, as members of the Youth Congress, this sends a clear message that Congress is committed to supporting the youth. Priyanka Ji‘s persona will undoubtedly inspire and empower us.
However, I can’t assure you at this moment whether Priyanka Ji will participate in my campaigns, as such decisions rest with the high command.
Q: Despite the hopeful performance of the INDIA bloc in the Lok Sabha elections, Congress faced setbacks in Haryana. How do you interpret this contradiction? And also, What lessons have you taken away from your Lok Sabha loss?
A: My political journey began as a block panchayat president, and since then, I have represented the voices of the people. I understand that the dynamics will be different in the Kerala Assembly. However, the issues raised by Congress have consistently focused on matters that affect the common people of our land.
The Congress played a pivotal role in establishing the Constitution of India and has emphasised the significance of democracy, which allows people to choose their representatives every five years. The representatives are responsible for making laws for the country—something we learned from history.
However, there are now numerous efforts to manipulate that history, which is evident in our educational system. The Congress continues to advocate against such agendas. The Congress party’s ideology is not solely focused on winning elections. It also aims to foster comprehensive contributions to the nation’s growth and welfare.
Without the Congress, how can India move forward? We cannot ignore the importance of the Congress solely based on electoral performance.
Regarding my performance in the last Lok Sabha elections, I believe I did well. In electoral politics, winning and losing are commonplace, and these outcomes do not deter a true politician. Even after facing defeat, I remained committed to my work in Alathur. I didn’t run away, I stood with my people.
Q: In the Lok Sabha, leaders like Mahua Moitra are vocal in opposing Modi. In the Kerala Assembly, we have only KK Rama, known for sharp criticism. What are your expectations in this regard?
A: The Congress party has consistently championed women’s representation in politics. Sonia Gandhi’s long tenure as AICC president is a testament to this commitment, setting the Congress apart from other national parties that have yet to elevate a woman to such a prominent position. This reflects the trust Congress places on women’s capabilities.
Women possess the ability to offer sharp critiques, lead parties, and contribute significantly to the political landscape. The Congress Party’s unwavering support for women is why they have entrusted me with responsibilities as well.
However, I firmly believe that while we have made strides, it is not enough. We need to strive for even greater women’s representation.
(Edited by Majnu Babu).
