Congress Leaders Sound Final Bell for Pinarayi Government, Herald UDF Era in Kerala
In a series of bold statements, senior Congress leaders have declared the ongoing Kerala assembly election as the definitive end of the Pinarayi Vijayan-led government and the dawn of a new United Democratic Front (UDF) administration. AICC general secretary KC Venugopal characterized the poll as the "final bell" for the current regime and the "opening note" for a UDF government, asserting that victory is certain and will rescue the state from a decade of what he termed "misrule."
Venugopal Alleges Power Retention Attempts and Governance Failures
Venugopal, in a social media post, accused Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of attempting to cling to power by forging understandings with the BJP and other communal groups. He claimed these efforts would fail, stating, "Even they have realised that it's time to say goodbye." The Alappuzha MP highlighted numerous alleged failures of the government, warning that its continuation would lead to the regularization of backdoor appointments, implementation of controversial policies, and deterioration of public healthcare institutions.
He further alleged a worsening financial condition and continued profligacy in governance, predicting a sharp rise in the cost of living through increases in house tax, property tax, electricity charges, medical expenses, and bus fares. Venugopal also raised concerns about corruption in cooperative institutions, inadequate handling of wildlife attacks, and women's safety issues, accusing the government of shielding perpetrators in cases involving party members.
Antony Claims Left Supporters Shift to UDF, Predicts Historic Victory
Senior Congress leader AK Antony made a striking claim that even traditional supporters of Left parties, including the CPM and CPI, have voted for the UDF in this election. After casting his vote, Antony told reporters that a significant section of Left-backing voters opposed granting another term, fearing it would weaken the movement in Kerala. He warned against allowing the Left to slip into a situation similar to West Bengal, noting this sentiment has driven an unprecedented voter shift across all districts in favor of the UDF.
"A broad alliance has emerged in this election, comprising those opposing the Pinarayi Vijayan government, traditional Congress supporters, and even those who wish to see the Left survive but not continue in power," Antony stated. He predicted a historic UDF victory, pointing to strong anti-incumbency sentiment and public anger that intensified into a wave during the final campaign days.
Chennithala and Tharoor Echo Calls for Change and Caution
Echoing these sentiments, senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala said a change in government is imminent, with the UDF set to come to power as people across Kerala express a clear desire for political change. He noted large crowds at campaign events and alleged corruption related to the Sabarimala gold issue, while accusing the BJP of distributing money to influence voters. Chennithala also claimed a BJP-CPM understanding, alleging vote transfers in certain constituencies during Lok Sabha elections.
Meanwhile, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor observed that the high voter turnout reflects a clear mandate for change. He assured there would be no dispute within the UDF over the chief minister candidate, with the central leadership making a prompt decision. Tharoor also noted the BJP's hopes to open its account in one or two constituencies with triangular contests, urging voters to exercise caution in such seats.
Together, these leaders have framed the election as a decisive democratic verdict against what they describe as "anti-people policies," expressing confidence that voters will deliver a resounding victory for the UDF to end a decade of perceived misgovernance.
