Kochi, March 28 (NationPress) With the Assembly elections in Kerala approaching on April 9, where all 140 seats will play a crucial role in shaping the future, the Congress party voiced its strong belief in achieving a favorable outcome.

The party took a firm stance against the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF), claiming that it has not fulfilled its major commitments, particularly in the areas of job creation and healthcare advancement, over the last ten years.

Congress officials indicated that their confidence is bolstered not only by their past governance record but also by a noticeable rise in public discontent towards the LDF administration. They asserted that the electorate in Kerala has become increasingly aware that the promises made by the ruling coalition—such as creating 40 lakh jobs and enhancing healthcare—remain unfulfilled.

In an interview with IANS, Congress leader Pawan Khera emphasized that their assurance is based on both their historical governance success and the perceived failures of the current administration.

“Our confidence arises from our proven track record in governance during our tenure. Furthermore, over the last decade, the people of Kerala have recognized that this government consistently fails to keep its promises, whether concerning jobs or healthcare,” he stated.

Khera further pointed out issues within the state’s healthcare system, referencing recent incidents as indicative of systemic breakdown.

“There have been instances where medical professionals have reportedly left instruments inside patients and attempted to rationalize such actions. When the Health Minister attributes it to a system failure, one must question—aren’t you part of the system? Citizens are increasingly asking why young individuals have to leave the state to seek employment, highlighting the LDF’s failures over the last decade,” he explained.

Khera also accused the LDF of indirectly assisting the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) by attempting to introduce it into the state's political arena through covert means. He insisted that the citizens of Kerala would reject such maneuvers and that it is time for voters to distance themselves from the Communist Party of India (Marxist)-led coalition.

Regarding the BJP's prospects, Khera argued that the party would find it challenging to establish a solid presence in the state.

“Kerala consists of an educated and informed populace. People are aware of the dangers of allowing the BJP to gain a foothold here. I am confident that the BJP will struggle to find substantial support, and we firmly believe in a Congress-led victory,” he asserted.

In a similar vein, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor provided an electoral assessment, suggesting that there may be efforts to fragment the anti-incumbency vote.

“It seems that the LDF may try to divide the anti-incumbency vote by fostering some support for the BJP, hoping it would disadvantage the UDF. However, our main focus is on the citizens of Kerala. Regardless of any arrangements others might undertake, our commitment is to the voters,” he said.

Tharoor downplayed the BJP’s electoral strength in Kerala, stating that it remains a minor player.

“The BJP is not genuinely competitive in more than two or three constituencies. Even in those districts, it faces stiff three-cornered races. To suggest it plays a significant role in a predominantly bipolar contest between the UDF and LDF would be misleading. Currently, it remains a zero-seat party in the Assembly,” he remarked.

Highlighting the campaign atmosphere, Tharoor expressed enthusiasm regarding the response the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) is generating.

“I have campaigned for around 20 candidates so far, mainly in South Kerala, and what I am witnessing is a remarkable wave of support for the UDF. The message that change is needed is resonating across various demographics—youth, students, professionals, and business communities alike,” he noted.

As Kerala gears up for this significant electoral contest, the primary battle is anticipated between the ruling LDF and the Congress-led UDF. Nonetheless, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is also making efforts to broaden its presence, rendering the upcoming elections a critical assessment of political strength and voter sentiment in Kerala.