Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan Defends Government Ahead of Assembly Elections

Thiruvananthapuram, March 22: Ahead of the Kerala Assembly elections scheduled for April 9, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has robustly defended his government’s decade-long tenure. He highlighted infrastructure expansion, revitalization of the social sector, and long-term planning as the foundation for the Left Democratic Front’s (LDF) third consecutive victory.

In an exclusive interview reflecting on his government’s journey since 2016, Vijayan noted that the LDF took power during a period of “general discontent.” However, the government quickly prioritized infrastructure as a catalyst for development.

Vijayan accused the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) of forming alliances with communal forces and targeted defectors from the Left. He stated that such individuals would find no acceptance among the public.

“The UDF has aligned with communal forces in several instances. They collaborated with the BJP in some local body elections and made compromises in selecting local body leaders. This was evident throughout the state. The UDF is connecting with communal groups for a few votes and seats. We, the LDF, are not prepared for such steps,” he asserted.

On the issue of the Sabarimala temple, the Chief Minister remarked that it did not significantly impact local body elections, even in Pandalam. He noted that the results were positive, and the government attempted to meet the people’s expectations. Each local body faces its governance challenges, and different issues influence voting in various regions.

Vijayan mentioned recent changes in national highways, stating that sections inaugurated by the Prime Minister clearly indicate the state’s developmental direction.

He emphasized that key sectors like health, which were previously disorganized, have now seen systematic improvements. In education, he claimed significant changes have occurred. Government schools, once on the brink of closure with nearly five lakh students dropping out, have been revitalized through an investment of ₹5,000 crore, the establishment of 50,000 smart classrooms, advanced laboratories, and improved teacher training.

The Chief Minister noted that recognition from the NITI Aayog validates these efforts.

Regarding infrastructure financing, Vijayan highlighted the revival of the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board. Investment has surged from an initial plan of ₹50,000 crore in 2016 to over ₹1.10 lakh crore now, up from ₹62,000 crore in 2021.

Key projects include the Hill Highway and Coastal Highway, with a total cost of ₹10,000 crore. Additionally, the bridge construction program has exceeded its initial target of 100 structures, reaching over 200.

Looking ahead, Vijayan referred to “Vision 2031,” which has been developed with expert consultations, setting regional development goals for the next five years.

He stated that Kerala’s management during the COVID-19 pandemic received global acclaim, as the state effectively controlled the outbreak. He also pointed out that Kerala’s infant mortality rate is significantly lower than global standards.

Vijayan prioritized higher education and research, noting that 18 of the country’s top 100 colleges are located in Kerala. The government is now working on establishing 13 centers of excellence and expanding skill development programs to prepare youth for global competition and attract multinational investments.

Politically, Vijayan dismissed the prospects of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), asserting that the state “will not open its doors” to them and predicting that they would not secure a single seat.

He concluded that the vision for a “New Kerala” by 2031 is not merely a dream but a realistic goal achievable through a decade of governance.