Thiruvananthapuram, 09 April (H.S.):Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday described the ongoing election as a decisive moment that will shape Kerala’s future, asserting that the state is firmly on the path towards becoming a developed society and must sustain its developmental momentum.

Speaking to reporters after casting his vote at RC Amala School, the Chief Minister said Kerala has made significant progress across multiple sectors in recent years and emphasised that this trajectory should not be interrupted. “This is an extremely important election for Kerala’s future. We have taken strong steps towards a developed Kerala and achieved notable milestones in various fields. That progress must continue without interruption,” he said.

Vijayan maintained that the people of the state broadly favour continuity in governance and believe that only the Left Democratic Front (LDF) can ensure sustained development. According to him, voters are keen to see ongoing projects completed and new initiatives implemented without disruption.

Highlighting governance standards, the Chief Minister claimed that Kerala remains one of the least corrupt states in the country, attributing this achievement to the political culture fostered by the LDF. “People clearly understand that Kerala’s progress can only be carried forward by the LDF. Even our critics ultimately want development. The public recognises that this level of transparency and integrity is a result of the LDF’s governance culture,” he said.

Expressing confidence in the electoral outcome, Vijayan said the LDF is poised to improve upon its 2021 performance and secure a larger mandate. “We are with the people, and the people are with us. There is a strong desire among the public for a continued developmental agenda under the LDF,” he added.

He also dismissed attempts to influence voters through divisive or communal tactics, stating that such strategies would not succeed in Kerala’s political environment.

Responding to a question regarding a recent controversial remark, the Chief Minister declined to elaborate, stating that it was open to interpretation. He also made a veiled reference to corruption cases involving political opponents, noting that a sitting Chief Minister in the country had been arrested and jailed in a corruption case, but refrained from naming the individual. “I will speak more about it after the elections,” he said.

The Chief Minister’s remarks come amid an intense electoral contest, with all major fronts campaigning vigorously across the state.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman