Kollam (Keralam), April 3 (NationPress) Union Minister Kiren Rijiju conveyed his strong belief in the electoral prospects of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Kerala, emphasizing that the coalition is garnering extensive support from diverse communities and is poised to achieve "record" advancements in the state.

In an interview with IANS in Kollam, Rijiju highlighted that the BJP candidate, Pratap Kumar, is receiving substantial public endorsement.

"I am here in Kollam. Our candidate, BJP candidate, Pratap Kumar, is receiving considerable backing from all segments of society. He is a well-respected doctor here, one of the finest in our nation. We are optimistic," he stated.

Rijiju underscored the NDA's outreach efforts, asserting that the alliance is receiving the "blessings from the people of Kerala" and presenting the BJP as a credible alternative to the state's entrenched political factions.

Traditionally, Kerala has been characterized by a bipolar contest between the Congress-led UDF and the CPI(M)-led LDF.

Promising inclusivity for all, Rijiju affirmed the Centre's commitment to the welfare of every citizen. "Everything we (the Centre) do is aimed at the welfare and well-being of the people of India. We aim to include every community," he stated, while also launching a scathing critique of the Congress party.

He accused the Congress of practicing appeasement politics and failing to meet the needs of minority communities.

Furthermore, Rijiju claimed that the Congress is trying to mislead the Christian community and asserted that voters in Kerala have now "grasped the strategy" employed by both the Congress and the Communist parties.

"For many years, these two factions have merely alternated power. Now it's time for a third party to have its opportunity -- BJP and NDA," he insisted.

Commending Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rijiju referred to him as "the most admired leader not just in India, but globally," and credited the NDA government with significant developmental initiatives in Kerala over the last decade.

"The public is rallying behind us (NDA), and they will extend their blessings to our BJP and NDA candidates," he added.

When asked about the upcoming Assembly elections, Rijiju expressed his optimism, stating the NDA would achieve "very good numbers, record seat counts".

In response to comments made by Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rijiju dismissed them, stating, "Nobody takes Rahul Gandhi seriously anymore."