Thiruvananthapuram , 11 Jan (H.S.):Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will lead a day-long satyagraha in the state capital on Monday, accusing the Union government of carrying out “conspiratorial moves” aimed at weakening Kerala economically and administratively. The protest, organised by the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF), will be held at the Martyrs’ Memorial (Raktasakshi Mandapam) in Thiruvananthapuram from 10 am to 5 pm.

According to LDF leaders, the satyagraha is intended to highlight what they describe as sustained financial discrimination against Kerala by the Centre, including alleged curbs on borrowing, delays in fund releases, and policies that undermine the federal spirit of the Constitution. Ministers, MLAs, MPs, and elected representatives from local self-government institutions are expected to participate in large numbers.

The protest is being projected as a continuation of the massive agitation led by the Chief Minister in New Delhi in 2024, where Kerala raised similar demands before the Union government and national institutions. LDF leaders say that despite repeated appeals and representations, the Centre has failed to address Kerala’s concerns, forcing the state to intensify its political resistance.

All constituent parties of the LDF, along with organisations that cooperate with the front, will mobilise supporters to reach the venue in procession and express solidarity with the satyagraha. Various mass organisations affiliated with the Left are also expected to join, turning the protest into a significant show of strength for the ruling front.

Senior leaders said the satyagraha is not directed against any state or the people of the country, but against what they call the Centre’s “anti-Kerala stance”. They alleged that the Union government’s fiscal policies have disproportionately affected Kerala’s development projects, welfare schemes, and social sector spending, even as the state continues to meet its constitutional obligations.

The LDF leadership maintains that the protest is part of a broader struggle to defend federalism and the rights of states. With the Chief Minister personally leading the agitation, the satyagraha is expected to draw wide political attention, reinforcing Kerala’s stand-off with the Centre over fiscal autonomy and federal rights.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman