THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, the CPM is gearing up to step up its political campaign against the central government and the UDF. It will organize a one-week agitation on a constituency basis from September 1, including in front of central government offices.

While the Centre is trying to squeeze Kerala in various matters, including the allocation of funds, the UDF is trying to blame the government instead of standing together. CPM state secretary MV Govindan said in the press conference that the CPM will expose this matter.

Although the Chief Minister demanded that the MPs from Kerala should make a concerted effort to correct the Centre's stand, the UDF MPs did not cooperate. The UDF MPs had agreed with the Chief Minister that they will be there to meet the Union Finance Minister jointly. However, not a single UDF MP came to meet the Finance Minister. Only the Left MPs met the Finance Minister and submitted the petition. Even though UDF has 18 MPs in the state, none of them has raised their voice against the moves that are making life difficult for Kerala.

Kerala is not getting even give a share commensurate with what is given to other states. When the Finance Commission's share was reduced from 3.9 to 1.9 percent, there was a shortfall of Rs 18,000 crore. There was another shortfall of Rs 12,000 crore due to the stopping of GST compensation. The Centre wants Kerala to experience a financial crisis.

Even if Kerala collects 50-55 percent share internally, the Centre has to give 45 percent. However, it was reduced to 30 percent. Due to this, the state s finding it hard to make two ends meet. Kerala has restrained the price rise more than any other state. However, the Centre is denying even the money for market intervention. 1762 crore should be set aside just to pay welfare pensions to 60 lakh people.

Vegetables and condiments will be given at reduced prices
"Vegetables and condiments will be made available at a 30 percent discount. No one should worry about this. The prices of 13 products have not increased for seven and a half years. The LDF government will fulfill its obligations to the people despite the crisis," Govindan said.