Alappuzha, April 4: The campaign for the final phase of the Kerala Assembly elections has intensified, with Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi targeting the ruling Left Front and the central government. During a rally in Alappuzha on Saturday, he stated that there is nothing ‘left’ in the Left Democratic Front (LDF) anymore, claiming it has become completely disconnected from the public.
Gandhi highlighted the presence of former Left leader G. Sudhakaran on stage as a sign of significant change. He remarked that Sudhakaran did not attend for opportunistic reasons but because of fundamental changes within the Left parties.
Sudhakaran, who has served as a legislator four times and as a minister twice, was expelled from the CPM after deciding to contest the Ambalappuzha seat as an independent candidate. Subsequently, he received support from the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF).
Gandhi accused the Left leadership in Kerala of harboring hidden communal influences, suggesting that some leaders are willing to compromise with the BJP-RSS for political gain. He noted that this has left dedicated workers of the Left feeling betrayed.
Commenting on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Gandhi asserted that both leaders have become disconnected from the people. He stated that prolonged power can lead to confusion and arrogance among leaders, widening the gap between the public and leadership.
He also criticized the Prime Minister for remaining silent on critical state issues, claiming that the BJP’s real battle is against the Congress and UDF, which is why it adopts a softer stance towards the Left.
Gandhi addressed the rising drug issues, farmers’ struggles, and unemployment in the state, asserting that the government has failed in crucial sectors like coir and rice.
He referenced UDF promises, including free bus travel for women, monthly stipends of 1,000 rupees for college students, 3,000 rupees in social pensions, and health insurance coverage of up to 25 lakh rupees for families.
After Alappuzha, Gandhi’s itinerary includes events in Kochi and Idukki. Voting for the 140 seats in Kerala is scheduled for April 9.
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