Thiruvananthapuram,28 Feb (H.S.):The United Democratic Front (UDF) is projected to return to power in Kerala in the upcoming Assembly elections, according to the latest Lok Poll survey results. The survey forecasts a decisive victory for the Congress-led alliance, estimating that the UDF could secure between 81 and 86 seats in the 140-member Kerala Legislative Assembly.

In contrast, the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) is expected to face a significant setback, with projections suggesting it may win only between 51 and 59 seats. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is predicted to make only marginal gains, with a maximum of two seats likely, according to the survey.

The Lok Poll survey was conducted between February 9 and February 24, as stated in a post shared on the agency’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle. Alongside seat projections, the survey also released estimated vote share percentages for the major political fronts.

The UDF is projected to receive between 43 and 45 percent of the vote share, giving it a clear lead over the LDF, which is expected to secure between 39 and 41 percent. The NDA’s vote share is estimated to range from 13 to 15 percent, while other parties and independent candidates are projected to account for 2 to 3 percent of the total vote.

The survey also provides a regional breakdown across South, Central, and North Kerala. In North Kerala, the UDF is expected to register a strong surge, largely driven by the influence of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), a key constituent of the alliance. However, the report suggests that traditional Left strongholds such as Kannur and Palakkad are likely to remain with the LDF, showing limited shifts despite the broader pro-UDF trend.

While opinion polls often reflect evolving political sentiments, the Lok Poll findings indicate a significant swing in favor of the UDF ahead of the Assembly elections. Political observers note that campaign dynamics, candidate selection, and alliance strategies in the coming weeks could further influence the electoral landscape.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman