Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi has escalated his criticism of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, targeting him twice in a single day as the election campaign reaches a critical phase. His first attack occurred in Thrissur, followed by another in Palakkad, highlighting a heightened focus on the Left leadership. As campaigning intensifies before the polls, Rahul has been concentrating his criticism on Vijayan, alleging a tacit understanding between the ruling CPI(M) and the BJP.
He asserted that Kerala’s political landscape is no longer a simple two-way battle but a scenario where the Congress-led UDF stands alone against both the CPI(M)-led LDF and the BJP. Rahul Gandhi criticized the government for focusing its publicity solely on the Chief Minister, portraying him as the sole capable leader of the state. Drawing parallels, he likened Vijayan’s governance style to that of Prime Minister Modi, accusing the Left government of deviating from its leftist principles and transforming into a “pro-capitalist regime.”
Rahul highlighted the shifting allegiances within the LDF, with several former Left leaders now contesting with UDF support, including prominent figures like two-time State Minister G. Sudhakaran. He also pointed out growing disillusionment among grassroots Left supporters, attributing it to what he perceives as the Chief Minister’s increasing “arrogance.” Questioning the BJP’s stance in Kerala, Rahul raised concerns about key issues like the Sabarimala gold smuggling case not being addressed by the Prime Minister directly.
Expressing worries over the selective use of central agencies, Rahul Gandhi questioned the Enforcement Directorate’s actions against him while seemingly overlooking investigations into the Chief Minister’s family. He alleged a mutual understanding between PM Modi and Vijayan to shield each other. Despite facing sustained attacks from the BJP and RSS, Rahul emphasized the strong support he has received from various sections within both the UDF and LDF as the campaign approaches its conclusion. Kerala is set to hold elections on Thursday to elect 140 new legislators.
