SDPI to support UDF in Lok Sabha polls

KOCHI: The Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) has decided to support UDF in the Lok Sabha elections. However, it will not campaign for UDF. SDPI state President Muvattupuzha Ashraf Moulavi said in a press conference that the party will not contest in Kerala.

"We have decided to support the Congress-led UDF to prevent the BJP-led NDA from coming back to power. Congress's promise to conduct a caste census and ensure social justice is also a reason for us to support it. Although there are some differences, we will support the candidates of the Muslim League and Kerala Congress as they are constituent parties of the UDF. We have 10,000 to 27,000 votes in the Lok Sabha constituencies. None of the fronts have officially approached us for support. Candidates have personally contacted the leaders. An NDA candidate has also sought the support of the leaders," he said.

Meanwhile, UDF Convener and KPCC Acting President MM Hassan said that the party will discuss and decide whether to accept the support of the SDPI. Speaking at the 'Face to Face' program at the Ernakulam Press Club, he said that the Congress had not held a discussion with the SDPI seeking its support.