Kharge Launches UDF Campaign in Kerala, Critiques LDF and BJP
Synopsis
In a powerful rally, Congress President Mallikarjuna Kharge kicked off the UDF campaign in Kerala, emphasizing the need for change after a decade of Left rule while criticizing both the LDF and BJP for their alleged collusion.
Key Takeaways
UDF Campaign Launch: Kharge emphasizes the need for change.
Critique of LDF: Accusations of rising debt and social distress.
Allegations Against BJP: Claims of a tacit alliance with the LDF.
Healthcare Concerns: Deterioration of public health infrastructure highlighted.
Future Promises: Commitment to responsible governance and development.
Kozhikode, March 25 (NationPress) Congress leader Mallikarjuna Kharge officially inaugurated the election campaign for the United Democratic Front (UDF) in Kerala on Wednesday. He framed the upcoming election as a critical struggle to “return the state to its rightful citizens”, while delivering a pointed, multifaceted critique of the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the BJP.
Speaking to a large crowd in Kozhikode, Kharge accused the CPI(M)-led LDF of having a covert alliance with the BJP, asserting that “voting for the CPI(M) essentially means voting for the BJP”.
He noted that the BJP's hesitance to put forth formidable candidates in various constituencies indicates a hidden political partnership designed to keep the Congress-led UDF from gaining power.
Kharge emphasized that Kerala is “united in its demand for change” after ten years of Left governance.
“The LDF had a decade to improve Kerala. What have they accomplished?” he questioned, accusing the administration of contributing to escalating debt, unemployment, and social unrest.
He stated that the state's liabilities are approaching Rs 6 lakh crore, which equates to a per capita debt of around Rs 1.7 lakh. He criticized a development model that, according to him, prioritizes “more wine shops than welfare initiatives”.
Kharge also made serious allegations regarding governance and law enforcement, claiming Kerala ranks as one of the top states for drug-related incidents, second only to Punjab.
He pointed out that the public healthcare system is in disrepair, with deteriorating hospital facilities and alleged irregular appointments affecting quality.
Referencing the contentious Sabarimala issue, Kharge accused the Pinarayi Vijayan administration of failing to uphold the temple's sanctity and allowing individuals involved in gold smuggling to evade scrutiny.
In a critique of what he termed “attention-seeking yet empty promises”, Kharge dismissed claims of Lionel Messi's visit to Kerala as misleading.
Conversely, he highlighted Rahul Gandhi's commitment to constructing a FIFA-accredited stadium in the state capable of hosting global icons like Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Sunil Chhetri.
Reaffirming that the Congress has fulfilled its commitments in states like Karnataka, Telangana, and Himachal Pradesh, Kharge called on voters to support the UDF, promising responsible governance and a transformative shift in Kerala's development path.
Point of View
Highlighting key criticisms aimed at both the ruling and opposing parties. Kharge's remarks underscore the intense political climate in Kerala as the state prepares for elections, revealing public sentiment towards governance and development.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Mallikarjuna Kharge?
Mallikarjuna Kharge is the current President of the Indian National Congress, a prominent political party in India.
What are the main criticisms made by Kharge?
Kharge criticized the LDF for rising debt, unemployment, and social issues, while also accusing the BJP of collusion with the LDF.
What is the significance of the Sabarimala issue?
The Sabarimala issue is a sensitive topic in Kerala involving the temple's access policies, representing broader socio-cultural conflicts in the state.
What promises did Kharge make to voters?
Kharge promised accountable governance and a significant change in Kerala's development trajectory if the UDF is elected.
