India, March 12 -- Veteran CPI(M) leader and former minister G Sudhakaran announced on Thursday that he will contest as an Independent from the Ambalapuzha constituency in the upcoming Kerala assembly elections in the state.

Sudhakaran, a four-time MLA and two-time minister, told reporters that he has not renewed his membership in the CPI(M) as a branch member.

"I don't want to say anything against the party or any party leader personally. But I will fight as an Independent. I appeal to the people to vote for me. No party or front has approached me extending support. I will decide on accepting support based on the nature of it. My fight is against political criminals and corruption," Sudhakaran told reporters.

Sudhakaran, who was assoc...