Kannur,11 Dec (H.S.):Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who arrived with his family to cast his vote at Booth No. 1 of Cherikal Junior Basic L.P. School in Kattilpeedika, Pinarayi grama panchayat, used the polling day to launch a scathing attack on the United Democratic Front (UDF).

Speaking to reporters after voting, the Chief Minister accused several UDF leaders of “licentious conduct” and termed them “sexual predators,” asserting that survivors were afraid to come forward due to the influence and intimidation exerted by these leaders. His remarks came in response to Congress MLA Sunny Joseph’s allegation that the second rape case against Rahul Mamkootathil was politically motivated.

“Can’t you see the evidence? These UDF leaders are a licentious lot. They are sexual predators. The survivors hesitate to come forward because of their threats,” Mr. Vijayan said.

Addressing the Sabarimala issue, Mr. Vijayan acknowledged that “some actions that should not have taken place did occur,” but emphasised that his government had taken an unwavering stand. “Believers feel that if it were not this government, such a strong position would not have been taken. That is why the government has the trust and support of devotees,” he said.

He also rejected attempts to portray the CPI(M) as communal, accusing Jamaat-e-Islami–backed groups of deliberately spreading such narratives. “The effort to label the CPI(M) as communal is the mischief of sectarian forces led by Jamaat-e-Islami. People will not fall for it,” he said.

Vijayan added that Jamaat-e-Islami’s growing influence in candidate selection in certain regions, and the Muslim League’s increasing dependence on them, would ultimately weaken the League. “If the Muslim League hands over responsibilities to Jamaat-e-Islami, they will eventually consume the League,” he remarked.

On the local body elections, the Chief Minister expressed confidence of a sweeping victory for the Left Democratic Front. “During our campaign, we received overwhelmingly positive feedback. We believe the LDF will secure a historic win even in traditional UDF strongholds,” he said.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman