Alappuzha (Kerala), April 4 (NationPress) In a bold political maneuver as the campaign in Kerala reaches its climax, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accused the CPI-M-led Left of straying from its foundational principles, asserting a covert agreement between the LDF and the BJP.

During a joint appearance with former Left leader G. Sudhakaran, Gandhi indicated a significant transformation within the Left.

"His presence isn't merely opportunistic. A fundamental shift has occurred in the Left. Today, quite frankly, there’s nothing left in the Left Democratic Front," he remarked, pointing out a rising sense of disillusionment.

Sudhakaran, a four-time CPI-M legislator and former Cabinet Minister, was expelled from the CPI-M after opting to run as an independent candidate in his local constituency at Ambalapuzha. Subsequently, the Congress-led UDF chose to back him.

Gandhi asserted that a "hidden communal influence" is affecting the Left in Kerala, alleging that certain leaders are prepared to collaborate with the BJP-RSS for their political longevity, while loyal workers feel "betrayed and abandoned".

He directly criticized both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, claiming that they are becoming increasingly "disconnected from the populace."

Gandhi argued that extended tenures in power often foster "confusion and arrogance", undermining the relationship between leaders and citizens.

"When leaders start believing that power resides with them instead of the people, that’s when the separation begins," he stated.

He also challenged the Prime Minister’s silence on critical state matters, contending that the BJP is lenient toward the Left as it does not view it as a significant national threat.

"Their real adversary is the Congress and the UDF," he asserted.

Addressing governance issues, Gandhi highlighted the rise in drug abuse, agricultural distress, and unemployment, accusing the Left government of neglecting vital sectors like coir and paddy.

He also raised concerns about attacks on minorities nationwide, suggesting ideological closeness between these forces and the ruling government in Kerala.

Outlining the UDF's commitments, he introduced welfare initiatives, including free bus travel for women, monthly financial aid of Rs 1,000 for college girls, Rs 3,000 social pension, and a comprehensive health insurance scheme of Rs 25 lakh for families.

Following the rally in Alappuzha, Gandhi is set to continue his campaign in Kochi and Idukki later today, as the UDF ramps up its efforts ahead of the elections.

Kerala will cast votes on April 9 to select 140 new legislators.