Kerala CM Seeks New Mandate for Development in Upcoming Elections
Call for Unity and Progress
On Monday, Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced that the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) is seeking a fresh mandate in the upcoming assembly elections scheduled for April 9, aiming to elevate the state to new heights of development. During a press conference, Vijayan emphasized that this election represents a historic opportunity for the public to unite and ensure the continuity of progress and welfare while upholding secularism and democratic values. He stated, 'Development and public welfare are the primary issues we are presenting to the electorate.'
Allegations Against Opposition
Vijayan accused right-wing forces of attempting to mislead the public through misinformation and communal tactics. He also criticized the Congress and BJP for allegedly siding with corporate interests. 'The past decade has demonstrated that a humane alternative model, which has become a global example, is practical. In Kerala, politics that forgets electoral promises does not thrive,' he remarked.
Critique of Previous Government
He launched a scathing attack on the previous United Democratic Front (UDF) government (2011-2016), claiming that the state experienced a period of complete decline during its tenure. He pointed out issues such as stagnation in appointments, the decline of the public sector, the closure of educational institutions, a corrupt administration, stagnation in agriculture and industry, reluctance towards industrial investment, and a severe financial crisis. He noted that during the UDF's rule, welfare pensions were overdue by 18 months, and the public health system was in a dire state due to shortages of doctors and medicines.
Education and Infrastructure Challenges
Vijayan highlighted that a significant number of students were dropping out of government schools, and textbooks were not being distributed on time, forcing students to rely on photocopies. Schools were closed citing lack of profitability. He claimed that there were no significant initiatives in higher education during that time, and attempts were made to undermine academic standards.
Achievements of the LDF Government
Regarding the energy sector, he stated that the UDF government had 'completely failed,' leading to frequent power outages. He also accused them of undermining public distribution and transportation systems. 'In such times, the LDF government took on the historic responsibility of rebuilding Kerala and revitalizing every sector,' he asserted. Highlighting achievements in the health sector, Vijayan noted that the government's commitment to the public is evident.
Increased Health Budget
He mentioned that when the UDF was ousted in 2016, the health budget allocation was ₹665 crores, which has now increased to over ₹3,000 crores during the LDF's tenure. He revealed that over ₹10,000 crores worth of projects have been implemented in the health sector through the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) and more than ₹1,000 crores through NABARD.
Commitment to Future Generations
Vijayan expressed the LDF's commitment to meeting the future needs of the state and the aspirations of the younger generation. He concluded, 'The experiences of the past decade are a response to the politics that held Kerala back. The people believe that the LDF has been able to lead the state from decline to progress.' He expressed confidence that the LDF would achieve a decisive victory in the upcoming elections.