Palakkad,28 March (H.S.):Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan launched a sharp attack on former CPI(M) leader P. K. Sasi, who is contesting from Ottapalam with the support of the United Democratic Front (UDF), accusing him of betrayal and opportunism ahead of the Assembly elections.

Addressing a campaign rally in Ottapalam in support of the Left Democratic Front (LDF), Vijayan described Sasi as a “betrayer,” asserting that history has never rewarded those who abandon their political commitments. The Chief Minister’s remarks signal the LDF’s aggressive stance in a constituency that has gained attention due to Sasi’s shift from the CPI(M) to contest as a UDF-backed candidate.

Vijayan also broadened his criticism to target the UDF, alleging that the opposition alliance has failed to take a firm stand against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its policies. He claimed that the BJP-led central government harbours a hostile approach towards Kerala, suggesting that it does not wish to see the state progress.

“Kerala is a stronghold of secular values, and it cannot accept the ideology of the RSS and the BJP,” Vijayan said, reinforcing the LDF’s ideological positioning. He further alleged that UDF leaders, including its Members of Parliament, have not effectively challenged what he described as anti-Kerala policies at the national level.

In a pointed remark, the Chief Minister accused the UDF of indirectly aligning with the BJP’s agenda, claiming that both forces share a common interest in weakening Kerala. “The UDF is not questioning the Centre’s approach. Instead, it appears to be moving in tandem with the BJP,” he said.

The comments come amid intensifying political exchanges in Palakkad district, with Ottapalam emerging as a key battleground in the upcoming elections, where shifting loyalties and ideological narratives are shaping the contest.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman