The Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president, Sunny Joseph, has accused the CPI(M) of anti-democratic practices, alleging they used horse-trading and financial inducements to retain control of the Wadakkanchery block panchayat. Joseph claims the CPI(M) offered money and positions to a UDF-backed Independent member to secure its rule, calling these actions immoral and illegal. He cited similar alleged maneuvers in the Mattathur grama panchayat and demanded legal action against those involved.