Polls approaching: Fronts sharpen their allegations

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With just hours left for the local body elections, the exchange of accusations between the political fronts has intensified. Along with development issues, the Sabarimala gold theft case and the sexual harassment case against Rahul Mamkootathil have become major campaign topics. In many parts of the state, a three-way contest is expected.

LDF
The LDF is confident that it can continue its dominance in local bodies across the state. Their campaign highlights the development projects implemented and the increased welfare benefits. The Sabarimala gold theft case, which has implicated Devaswom Boards from the LDF’s time in power, has put the front under pressure. Still, the LDF is trying to turn the tables by highlighting the sexual harassment allegations against Rahul Mamkootathil to attack the UDF. They also accuse the UDF of joining hands with communal groups. At the same time, there is concern within the LDF about whether the inroads made by the BJP in traditional LDF strongholds during the Lok Sabha election will repeat.

UDF
The UDF hopes that anti-incumbency sentiment will help them. Their main campaign highlight is the Sabarimala gold theft case. They are attacking the CPM, saying that even the former Devaswom Minister may be questioned in the investigation. They claim that by removing Rahul Mamkootathil, who faced a sexual harassment allegation, Congress has shown moral responsibility unlike the CPM, which they accuse of protecting people with similar accusations. The allegation of a CPM–BJP deal is also being strongly raised. There is also concern within the UDF about whether extra votes gained by the NDA will come from their traditional support base.

NDA
The NDA believes that they can achieve favourable results if they can increase their vote share similar to the Lok Sabha election. Their campaign focuses on the development projects of the central government. They are appealing to voters to try a new alternative instead of the LDF and UDF. They accuse the LDF of betraying believers and claim that Congress has abandoned secularism.