Thiruvananthapuram

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday said the state’s emphasis on development, communal harmony and industrial growth has helped create a stable environment, asserting that the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government follows a consistent policy of opposing all forms of communalism.

Addressing a public gathering here, Vijayan said the absence of communal tensions in Kerala over the past decade has supported the state’s development trajectory. He maintained that the LDF does not align with any communal force and would act firmly if any such conflict emerges.

“There have been no communal clashes in Kerala in the last ten years. Such conflicts occurred during earlier regimes. This government will not side with communalism of any kind. The LDF has a uniform approach in resisting all communal forces and will take a strict stand whenever required,” he said.

The chief minister underlined the need for confidence and self-reliance to achieve Kerala’s long-term development objectives. Rejecting what he termed an “inferiority mindset”, Vijayan said the state must move forward with self-belief and determination.

“We should not think in terms of a small Kerala, but of a great Kerala. We are not waiting for anyone’s mercy; we are progressing on our own strength. Nava Kerala is an achievable goal. There are challenges, but also opportunities. Domestic production must be doubled, and our living standards should match those of developed nations,” he said.

Vijayan also pointed to Kerala’s progress despite financial pressures from the Centre, saying the state has continued on its development path even amid fiscal constraints. He added that the government should accelerate its efforts rather than become complacent.

On industrial growth, the chief minister said perceptions about Kerala being unfriendly to industry have changed significantly since 2016. “Earlier, there was a widespread belief that Kerala was not suitable for industry. Today, investments are coming in across sectors. We are selective and promote only those industries that align with Kerala’s needs and environment,” he said.

Kerala is expected to go to Assembly polls before May 2026, though the Election Commission of India has not announced a schedule yet. Political parties have begun preparations for the high-stakes contest, with a triangular fight anticipated among the LDF, the United Democratic Front (UDF) and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

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Both the BJP-led NDA and the Congress-led UDF are seeking to dis