THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Left Democratic Front(LDF) has established its sway in a majority of block panchayats in the district by dominating in eight out of eleven panchayats. Infact, the left front doubled their winnings from four blocks, in the elections held in 2010, to eight this time by usurping UDF strongholds all the way.
Of the eleven block panchayats, LDF emerged winners with clear-cut majority in five blocks and came out as single largest front in the other three.
The block panchayats in which LDF has gained clear majority are Chirayinkeezhu,
Kilimanoor, Nedumangad, Vamanapuram and Varkala. The three blocks where the left front is expected come in power with the support of independent candidates and other parties are Nemom, Parassala and Perumkadavila.
Of these blocks, LDF wrested power from UDF in Parassala, Nemom and Vamanapuram. In Perumkadavila, LDF’s win broke the five year uncertainty that prevailed in the area. However, the victory of Congress rebel candidate in Amboori division has turned out to be a decisive factor since LDF and UDF have secured seven and six seats each.
On the other hand, UDF managed to secure majority only in two blocks, Athiyannoor and Pothencode. In 2010, UDF won in six block panchayats in the district. The outcome this time clearly indicates that UDF is losing its ground in the grass roots of democracy. In Kilimanoor and Vrakala blocks, UDF paid the price by securing just three and one divisions respectively.
In Nedumangad too, UDF won in just three seats out of 13 seats. Interestingly, UDF and LDF are on a tie in Vellanad block by securing eight divisions each.
Meanwhile, BJP has come up as a crucial front and decisive factor in Nemom block. The ball is in their court and their decision on whom to support will lay foundation for a stable administration. LDF won in seven divisions while UDF won in six divisions out of sixteen. BJP won in two divisions such as Pravachambalam and Vellayani. Hence, a minimum of nine members are required to attain a majority for coming into the power.
However, discussions are on at various block segments to decide their respective leaders so as to have stable administration.