Thiruvananthapuram: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a public rally in Kerala’s capital on Friday, expressing deep emotion and optimism about the political changes underway in the state. He said the energy and enthusiasm at the gathering signalled the beginning of a new chapter for Kerala.
Drawing parallels with his own political journey in Gujarat, PM Modi recalled that before 1987, the BJP was a small party there. The party’s breakthrough came with a win in the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation that year, similar to the recent success in Thiruvananthapuram. He noted that just as Gujarat’s growth started from one city and spread, a similar trend is emerging in Kerala with more people embracing the BJP.
Criticism of LDF and UDF Governments
The Prime Minister sharply criticised the Left Democratic Front (LDF) and United Democratic Front (UDF) governments, accusing them of neglecting basic amenities and infrastructure in Thiruvananthapuram over decades. He alleged that these administrations ignored public needs, while the BJP is now working towards transforming the city into a developed and model urban centre. Modi reiterated his commitment to making Thiruvananthapuram one of India’s best cities.
Political Landscape and Development Promises
Highlighting the state’s traditional two-front political system, PM Modi said Kerala’s issues remained unresolved despite alternating governments. He positioned the BJP and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) as a third alternative focused on development and good governance. He accused both LDF and UDF of promoting corruption, mismanagement, and appeasement politics, stating that despite different flags, their thinking is largely similar.
The Prime Minister also criticised the state government for obstructing several central government schemes. He claimed delays in implementing the next phase of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban), disruptions in piped water supply projects, and restrictions on poor children’s access to modern schools under the PM Shree scheme.
Welfare Initiatives for Fishermen and Infrastructure Development
PM Modi spoke about the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, stating that Kerala has received ₹1,400 crore in support under this scheme. He highlighted that the BJP government created a separate ministry for fisheries for the first time to address sector-specific needs. Fishermen are now being offered benefits like the Kisan Credit Card and assistance to modernise deep-sea fishing boats.
On infrastructure, Modi said that the Congress and LDF neglected development and were mired in corruption. He pointed out that Kerala’s entire railway network has been electrified, with three Vande Bharat trains already operational. Recently, the Amrit Bharat Express was also launched in the state.
Touching on religious sentiments, the Prime Minister mentioned Lord Ayyappa and the Sabarimala temple, asserting that people across India hold deep faith in Lord Ayyappa but accused the LDF government of harming Sabarimala’s traditions. He also referred to reports of gold theft from the temple, promising a thorough investigation and prosecution under BJP rule.
Corruption and Congress Critique
Addressing corruption, Modi stated that it has been the biggest obstacle to Kerala’s development. Referring to cooperative bank scams, he lamented the exploitation of the hard-earned money of poor and middle-class citizens and vowed to recover every rupee if the BJP is given a chance to govern.
He also attacked the Congress party, accusing it of lacking a development agenda and engaging in divisive politics that people across the country recognise by different names. Modi alleged that Congress is using Kerala as a laboratory for its strategies and encouraging extremist elements.
– (Daily Kiran)
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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