How do you respond to claims that IUML fielded K M Shaji in Vengara to appease Jama’at-e-Islami?
LDF keeps alleging that UDF is under Jama’at’s influence without concrete evidence. UDF has enough strength to field its own candidate without external backing.
Your views on Welfare Party state president Rasak Paleri declaring support to UDF?
Welfare Party is entitled to support any candidate of its choice. This should not be misconstrued as an indication of UDF affiliation. It chose to support LDF in the last elections. It should be examined what steps LDF took to dissuade the party from extending its support.
Does the BJP/NDA have a chance to influence outcomes in key seats?
The BJP is unlikely to emerge as a significant force, given Kerala’s inherent secular ethos. The state’s electorate is averse to divisive politics.
Is banking on anti-incumbency enough?
UDF is poised to present many initiatives beyond that, including innovative approaches to resource mobilisation, a clear vision for youth empowerment and a roadmap for the socio-economic advancement of marginalised communities.
UDF has accused LDF of an indirect understanding with BJP. How do you substantiate the claim?
Voting pattern in the local body elections suggested an understanding between LDF and BJP, with ward delimitation appearing to favour them both. BJP’s capture of Thiruvananthapuram corporation has raised eyebrows. LDF’s attempts to distance itself from it were met with skepticism. It is a nexus for sure.