Kerala local body polls: CM asserts strong prospects for LDF, defends govt’s stance on Sabarimala row

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday said the Left Democratic Front (LDF) is poised for a “historic win” in the local body elections, claiming that the campaign had drawn widespread positive feedback across constituencies, including traditional UDF strongholds. He said voters across the State had expressed confidence in the ruling front.

“The LDF is confident in the local body elections. During our campaign, we received a lot of positive feedback. We believe LDF will secure a historic win in all areas, including in UDF quarters,” he said.

Addressing questions on the Sabarimala issue, the Chief Minister reiterated that the government had taken a decisive position during the controversy.

“Some actions that should not have taken place did occur at Sabarimala. The government has taken a firm stance on this. Believers feel that if it were not for this government, such a strong position would not have been taken on the issue. That is why the government has the support of the devotees,” he said.

Reacting strongly to KPCC president Sunny Joseph claims that the second rape case against Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkoottathil was part of a “conspiracy”, Mr. Vijayan accused UDF leaders of protecting wrongdoers.

“These UDF leaders are a licentious lot. They are sexual predators. Can’t you see the evidence? The survivors are hesitant to come forward due to their threats,” he said.

“In the complaints received, including from the Congress, the victims have been threatened with death if their concerns are investigated. Therefore, they fear that their lives will be in danger if they reveal the facts. There may be more things to come than what has happened so far. What the UDF convener said in the woman actor assault case can only be seen as the UDF’s stance. The country and the government are with the survivors. It is continuing to do so,” he said.

The remarks come amid heightened political tension ahead of the polling, with both fronts exchanging sharp accusations on issues ranging from law and order to moral accountability.