The Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) has revealed a flexible approach for the upcoming Kerala Assembly elections. SDPI’s national President, M. K. Faizy, announced that the party will back alliances best positioned to defeat the BJP in constituencies where it is not fielding candidates. This strategy includes both open endorsements and discreet support through internal directives to party members.
In specific constituencies like Nemom, SDPI has decided to openly support the LDF candidate to prevent a BJP victory. However, in Manjeswaram, the party is yet to finalize its stance on supporting the UDF, opting to assess the ground situation first. Faizy emphasized that their support may not always be publicly declared, indicating a strategic and nuanced electoral role.
The Leader of the Opposition, V. D. Satheesan, has challenged Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to clarify his position on accepting SDPI’s support. Satheesan accused the Left of double standards, highlighting the UDF’s rejection of SDPI backing in the past compared to the current ambiguity from the CPI-M. He also criticized the Left for allegedly engaging in selective labeling of communal groups based on political expediency.
Meanwhile, amidst escalating political tensions, the SDPI’s tactical approach and the growing verbal sparring between the UDF and LDF have added complexity to Kerala’s electoral landscape. The SDPI’s strategic moves, including contesting in Thalassery to challenge the LDF, have intensified the electoral battle in the state.
