Chandy Oommen, the newly elected MLA from Puthuppally, broke down emotionally while addressing the media over the controversy surrounding his name being dragged into ministerial discussions. He urged the media not to turn him into an anti-party figure by linking his name to the cabinet portfolio speculation.

Chandy Oommen had run a unique election campaign — cycling through the constituency instead of using vehicles, avoiding flex banners, and redirecting campaign funds to build houses for the poor. His distinctive style won him a massive victory, and there was widespread speculation that he would be inducted into the UDF cabinet.

However, when the ministry list was finalised, his name was missing. The emotional fallout was captured on camera as he wept at his father Oommen Chandy’s grave, saying he never sought any position and only wished to serve the party and the people.

He clarified that he has never belonged to any faction within the Congress party and has always stood with Rahul Gandhi. He dismissed cruel allegations that he had attempted to harm his father’s legacy, calling them deeply hurtful.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan dismissed claims by K. Muraleedharan that there were disputes over portfolio allocation. Satheesan stated that portfolio discussions were completed on the night of the swearing-in itself and that the delay in submitting the list was only because the Governor was out of station. He confirmed that the portfolio list had been submitted to the Governor, with Roji M. John getting higher education and M. Liju getting excise along with cooperation department.