Why K C Venugopal’s Elevation As Kerala Chief Minister May Lead To Two Bypolls

Last Updated:May 12, 2026, 16:05 IST

Even though Venugopal is away from Kerala politics, he still maintains significant influence in the party's policies.

As deliberations continue over the next Chief Minister of Kerala, K C Venugopal has emerged as a top contender for the post. However, his potential appointment presents a unique constitutional challenge, as Venugopal did not contest the recent Assembly election.

If selected as Chief Minister, Venugopal must secure a seat in the Kerala Legislative Assembly within six months. This would trigger two distinct by-elections. As the sitting Member of Parliament for Alappuzha, Venugopal would be required to resign his parliamentary membership.

Also, a sitting MLA from the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) would need to vacate their seat to allow Venugopal to contest a by-election for the state legislature.

Venugopal’s Legacy In Kerala Politics

Venugopal is no stranger to the state’s political landscape. He first entered the Kerala Assembly in 1996, representing the Alappuzha constituency for three consecutive terms. During the Oommen Chandy administration (2004–2006), he also served as the Minister for Tourism and Devaswom.

His rise within the party began at the grassroots level, where he led the Kerala Students Union (KSU) from 1988 to 1993, followed by a tenure as the Youth Congress State President (1993–2000).

Venugopal’s Shift To National Politics

Since transitioning to national politics, Venugopal has become a pivotal figure in the Congress hierarchy. Following his appointment as AICC General Secretary (Organisation) in 2019, he established himself as a primary power centre within the party, serving as a key bridge to the high command.

Will Venugopal Become Kerala CM?

Even though Venugopal has been away from Kerala politics for the last six years, he still maintains significant influence in the party’s affairs. He reportedly played a crucial role in giving assembly tickets and campaigned extensively for the party.

Around 43 MLAs and all party MPs from the state have supported Venugopal as chief minister, given his stature in the Congress.

With Venugopal clearly ahead of two other contenders in the race– V D Satheesan and Ramesh Chennithala, the decision rests with Rahul Gandhi on whether he will allow his confidant to go to Kerala, where he was previously a party MP and where his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is now the MP from the Wayanad constituency.

The Congress’s dilemma is also about choosing between a central leader, Venugopal, and Kerala leaders with ground support — — both of whom have strong pockets of influence in the state.

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