Kerala Opposition Slams BJP and CPM for Undermining Democratic Norms in Elections
In a scathing critique of the current political climate in Kerala, Opposition leader V D Satheesan on Wednesday launched a fierce attack against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM), accusing them of subverting democratic norms through the use of money, kits, and political propaganda. Speaking at a public event in Paravur, Satheesan declared that the United Democratic Front (UDF) would take legal action against the BJP's Palakkad candidate, while expressing unwavering confidence that UDF's own candidate, Ramesh Pisharody, would secure a comfortable victory in the upcoming elections.
Allegations of Cash Distribution and Corrupt Practices
Satheesan highlighted what he described as "widespread attempts" by both the BJP and CPM to sway voters through unethical means. He pointed to a video released by the Congress party, which allegedly shows a BJP worker in Palakkad distributing money in the presence of their candidate. "The BJP is distributing saris and cash, introducing a corrupt culture previously unseen in Kerala," Satheesan asserted, emphasizing that such practices represent a grave threat to the integrity of the electoral process.
He did not spare the CPM either, citing a specific incident in Adoor where the Left Democratic Front (LDF) distributed leaflets falsely labeling a UDF candidate as a murder accused. "The candidate was forced to address the media in tears because of these baseless lies," Satheesan added, condemning the use of smear campaigns to manipulate public opinion.
Confidence in UDF Victory and Public Rejection of Tactics
Despite these challenges, Satheesan predicted a decisive victory for the UDF, stating that the people of Kerala would reject the "undemocratic tactics" employed by the LDF and BJP. "No amount of kits or fake leaflets can blind the people of Kerala to the truth," he declared, underscoring his belief in the electorate's ability to see through deceptive strategies.
Election Commission Criticized for Inaction
In a parallel development, AICC general secretary K C Venugopal, while visiting Kottayam, called on the Election Commission (EC) to take immediate action on the cash-for-vote case in Palakkad. He visited the family of a farmer who committed suicide in Vaikom on Wednesday, using the occasion to highlight broader issues of electoral malpractice. "Giving money to influence voters is a grave violation of election rules," Venugopal stated, questioning the EC's response to the alleged misconduct.
"Despite the BJP openly distributing money in Palakkad, what is the Election Commission doing? BJP's money power is visible throughout Kerala. It is common for the BJP to give money to rig elections," Venugopal added, noting that this trend has been observed in constituencies like Alappuzha and others where the BJP fancies its chances.
Violations of Election Advertisement Directives
Venugopal further criticized the EC for its perceived inaction regarding election advertisements. "Where is the Election Commission in Kerala? Today, only the UDF adhered to the Election Commission's directive not to air election advertisements on TV and online media. Advertisements from the LDF and BJP are appearing on TV and online. What is the Election Commission doing about this?" he demanded, pointing to what he sees as a failure to enforce regulations evenly.
Allegations of Fake Identity Cards for Bogus Voting
Adding to the list of accusations, Venugopal reiterated claims that the CPM is producing fake identity cards in Kannur and Kasaragod to facilitate bogus voting. "In many places in Kannur, including Cheemeni, fake cards are being printed. The Election Commission has been informed. It is their responsibility to investigate and take action," he said, urging swift measures to prevent electoral fraud.
Overall, these statements from key opposition figures in Kerala paint a picture of a heated electoral battle, marked by allegations of corruption, propaganda, and institutional failures, as the state gears up for a crucial political contest.
