Alappuzha

Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday launched a sharp attack on the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) in Kerala and the BJP, alleging that Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is aligned with forces that target minority communities across the country.

Speaking at an election rally in Alappuzha, Gandhi repeated his charge of an understanding between the BJP and the LDF. He also criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not addressing the Sabarimala issue during his campaign in the state.

Kerala is set to vote for its 140-member Assembly on April 9.

Referring to former CPI(M) leader G Sudhakaran, who shared the stage with him, Gandhi said his presence signalled a deeper shift within the Left. Sudhakaran is contesting as an Independent candidate with the backing of the Congress-led UDF from Ambalapuzha.

Gandhi said Sudhakaran’s decision to stand with the UDF was not driven by opportunism but reflected deeper concerns about the direction of the LDF. He added that while the Congress and the Left had historically been ideological opponents, the LDF no longer represented its original principles.

He further alleged that a “hidden force” was influencing the LDF, accusing it of promoting divisive politics and undermining constitutional values. According to him, many within the Left were uncomfortable with this shift, with some seeking power at any cost while others felt disillusioned.

Targeting Modi, Gandhi said the Prime Minister frequently speaks about religion and temples in other states but avoids such issues in Kerala, suggesting it was a deliberate political choice to avoid confronting the state leadership.

He also alleged that minority communities were facing increasing attacks across the country, citing incidents in states like Chhattisgarh and Manipur. Gandhi claimed that those responsible for such actions were linked to the Kerala leadership, a charge aimed directly at Vijayan.

Drawing a comparison between Modi and Vijayan, Gandhi accused both leaders of becoming disconnected from the public after long periods in power. He alleged that dissent was being suppressed and critics were being treated harshly.

Gandhi also raised concerns about Kerala’s socio-economic situation, claiming that drug-related issues were rising, farmers were under heavy debt, and traditional industries like coir were declining, leaving many without jobs.

On national issues, he criticised the Centre’s trade engagement with the United States, warning that it could harm Indian farmers and small businesses. He also expressed concern over global tensions in the Middle East, suggesting they could disrupt energy supplies and impact India’s economy.

He further alleged that key sectors of the economy were being handed over to large corporate groups and warned of a possible rise in fuel prices in the near future.

Highlighting the Congress-led UDF’s promises, Gandhi said the alliance would introduce free bus travel for women in KSRTC services and provide a monthly allowance of Rs 1,000 to female college students.

Emphasising the role of women in society, he said the proposed measures were aimed at empowering them to pursue education and opportunities freely.

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Before concluding his visit, Gandhi briefly interacted with Sudhakaran and acknowledged his presence at the rally.