In Kerala, LDF attracts allies from a point of strength and UDF from a position of weakness
KOCHI: The fear of Left Democratic Front (LDF) attracting more minor allies into its fold has forced the Congress to handover the Rajya Sabha seat to Kerala Congress (M), said senior party leaders. But political observers said the move will further weaken the Congress in the state, besides demoralising the rank and file of the party. “If you look at the LDF, it is very powerful now. Still, it is wooing small parties into its fold,” said a senior Congress leader, justifying the decision to offer the Rajya Sabha seat to KC (M).
“LDF has M P Veerendra Kumar of JD (U), R Balakrishna Pillai of KC (B), Francis George faction of the Kerala Congress, RSP Leninist, INL and CMP,” said a senior Congress leader, on condition of anonymity.
“In the Chengannur by-election, the CPM leaders such as Kodiyeri Balakrishnan openly wooed SNDP voters, fully knowing that BDJS is an ally of the NDA,” he said, adding that “UDF had to be strengthened as LDF was looking for an opportunity to “hijack” more allies from its fold.
However, J Prabhash, a political commentator and former pro vice-chancellor, Kerala University, explained that LDF was attracting allies from a position of strength. “The Congress is attracting allies from a position of weakness while the Left is attracting from a point of strength,” he said.
“If you look at the Congress electoral history, the party has been weakening at the cost of allies. And the latest move will create an impression that UDF is a front of minorities, comprising Christians and Muslims. This will help the other fronts including BJP to attract more voters and leaders,” said Prabash.
The decision to offer the Rajya Sabha seat has affected the morale of the rank and file of Congress, and further weaken the party, he said, adding: “The move is giving an impression that Congress is appeasing the minorities.”