Thiruvananthapuram, 12 April (H.S.):The ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) is poised to secure a decisive victory in Kerala and return to power for a third consecutive term, CPI(M) state secretary M.V. Govindan asserted on Sunday. He expressed confidence that the Left alliance would win more than 90 seats in the recently concluded Assembly elections, repeating its performance of 2016 and 2021.

Addressing a press conference after a meeting of the CPI(M) state secretariat, Govindan dismissed opposition claims that higher voter turnout would favour the United Democratic Front (UDF). He described such arguments as baseless and politically motivated.

Highlighting electoral data, Govindan said the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls had significantly influenced voter statistics. According to figures released by the Election Commission, the total number of voters in the state declined to 2.71 crore after the revision. Of these, 78.27 percent cast their votes.

He pointed out that compared to the 2021 Assembly elections, the number of voters decreased in 94 constituencies this time. This reduction, he explained, was a direct consequence of the SIR process and not indicative of any unusual surge in polling, countering narratives circulated by opposition parties.

Govindan also alleged that both the UDF and the BJP attempted to influence voters through the use of money power during the election. He claimed that tactics commonly seen in North India were being replicated in Kerala, but insisted that such efforts would not succeed in altering the electoral outcome.

Emphasising the grassroots strength of the Left, Govindan said LDF workers had carried out sincere and committed campaign activities across the state. He expressed confidence that their efforts would translate into a clear mandate when votes are counted.

“The LDF’s performance will reflect the trust people continue to place in us,” he said, projecting a comfortable victory for the ruling front.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman