In a direct challenge to the Left Democratic Front, CPI(M) rebel and former Kara North branch secretary C. Vaishak filed his nomination as an Independent candidate in Ward 36 of Payyanur municipality on Thursday.

Mr. Vaishak, a former DYFI regional vice president, broke away from the party, alleging negligence by local leaders amid prolonged factional tensions in the Kara region. The ward, previously held by the CPI(M), has been alloted to the Congress(S) this time. P. Jayan is the LDF candidate.

Meanwhile, the CPI(M) Kannur district committee has expelled Mr. Vaishak for anti-organisational activities.