CPM's Statewide House Visits Uncover Strong Public Backing, Claims Party Secretary
In a significant political development, Communist Party of India (Marxist) state secretary M V Govindan asserted that the party's extensive statewide house visit programme has revealed a notable absence of public sentiment against the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government in Kerala. Speaking at a press conference held in Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday, Govindan emphasized that the grassroots outreach initiative has provided crucial insights into the prevailing political mood across the state.
Rejection of Opposition Narratives and Media Campaigns
Govindan highlighted that the false narratives propagated by the United Democratic Front (UDF), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and certain media outlets against the Left front are being firmly rejected by the common people. "Our interactions during the house visits have clearly demonstrated that the public is discerning and not swayed by baseless allegations," he stated. Interestingly, the CPM leader noted that even those citizens who previously supported the UDF during local body elections are now exhibiting favorable inclinations towards the Left front, indicating a potential shift in political allegiance.
Incorporating Public Feedback into Election Manifesto
The CPM state secretary revealed that the valuable suggestions and feedback collected from the people during these house visits by dedicated party workers will play a pivotal role in shaping the LDF's manifesto for the upcoming assembly elections. "We are committed to formulating a people-centric manifesto that genuinely reflects the aspirations and needs of Kerala's residents," Govindan affirmed, underscoring the party's democratic approach to policy formulation.
Criticism of Prime Minister's Thiruvananthapuram Visit
Expressing disappointment, Govindan pointed out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who arrived in Thiruvananthapuram with grand announcements of a developmental blueprint for the city, departed without making any concrete declarations. "It is regrettable that such high-profile visits often lack substantive outcomes for the people of Kerala," he remarked, questioning the effectiveness of central government initiatives in the state.
Advocacy for High-Speed Rail and Secular Principles
Emphasizing infrastructure development, Govindan stressed that a high-speed rail corridor is absolutely crucial for Kerala's progress, and the government will explore all possible avenues to realize this project. Furthermore, he reiterated the CPM's unwavering commitment to secularism, asserting that the party will not compromise on this fundamental principle or accept any stance that lacks broad public acceptance.
Clarification on Saji Cherian's Remarks and Sabarimala Gold Theft Case
Addressing recent controversies, Govindan clarified that the remarks made by minister Saji Cherian or his subsequent expression of regret were not issued as per the party's directive, although the party did not formally reprimand him. On the sensitive Sabarimala gold theft case, Govindan alleged that the opposition, particularly leader V D Satheesan, has failed to provide answers regarding why individuals involved in buying and selling gold met Congress leader Sonia Gandhi in New Delhi. He accused the UDF of deliberately avoiding assembly discussions on this matter, fearing that further evidence of this connection might be exposed.
The press conference concluded with Govindan expressing confidence in the LDF's prospects for the forthcoming elections, buoyed by the positive responses garnered during the comprehensive house visit campaign.
