Agartala/Thiruvananthapuram, March 26 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Tripura, Manik Saha, emphasized on Thursday that Kerala ought to take inspiration from his state's journey in tackling corruption and political mismanagement. He urged the electorate to shift from what he described as "divisive politics" to a more development-focused political landscape.

While speaking at an election rally supporting BJP candidate Prasanth Malavayal in the Kalpetta Assembly constituency of Wayanad district, Chief Minister Saha highlighted how Tripura's evolution following decades of Left governance can serve as a blueprint for Kerala.

"Tripura, once a bastion of continuous Left rule, now exemplifies hope, transformation, and victory. The challenges faced by the people of Kerala are reminiscent of our past experiences. It is time for Kerala to move beyond this phase, just as we have done," he stated.

Referring to it as a "golden opportunity," Chief Minister Saha asserted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's guidance, the nation is progressing towards a governance model centered on development, which he believes Kerala should adopt.

He accused both the Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the United Democratic Front (UDF) of perpetuating a cycle of corruption within the state.

"For years, the LDF and UDF have engaged in a form of 'match-fixing', alternating control while citizens continue to endure hardship. Similar to Tripura, the BJP in Kerala must pledge to eradicate corruption and foster a thriving state," the Chief Minister remarked.

Reflecting on Tripura's political transformation in 2018, he recalled that the CPI-M had dominated the state for 35 years with minimal opposition.

"There were no BJP MLAs, MPs, or Councillors previously. However, through the direction of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we (BJP) established a robust grassroots organization, reinforced booth-level networks, and mobilized dedicated party workers throughout the state," he added.

He pointed out that in the 2018 Assembly elections, the BJP secured 36 seats, while its ally, the IPFT (Indigenous People's Front of Tripura), also performed commendably, collectively winning 44 out of the total 60 seats.

"The Congress party in Tripura was virtually eliminated. The electorate prioritized development over dynastic rule and welfare over waste," he concluded.

Chief Minister Saha noted that the BJP government in Tripura has since prioritized development across various sectors, including infrastructure, housing, sanitation, drinking water, and connectivity in remote and tribal regions.

He also underscored initiatives aimed at ensuring women's safety and fostering inclusive growth.

Turning his focus to Kerala, he criticized the state's political leadership for purportedly mismanaging temple affairs and eroding public trust in CPI-M leaders.

He affirmed that the BJP is committed to safeguarding cultural heritage while ensuring transparent governance of religious institutions.

"Both LDF and UDF have transformed governance into a cycle of institutionalized corruption, where public office is often exploited for personal gain. It is imperative to replace this with a politics centered on growth, accountability, and development," CM Saha added.

He reiterated that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) remains dedicated to delivering transparent governance, clean administration, and inclusive development in Kerala.

"Every Malayali deserves equal opportunities without discrimination," he emphasized.

Additionally, the Tripura Chief Minister participated in another election convention at Town Junction in support of BJP candidate K. Renith in the Dharmadam Assembly constituency.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is contesting for re-election from the Dharmadam Assembly constituency.

"The Tripura Chief Minister's visit signifies a crucial effort by the BJP leadership to energize party workers and engage with voters in these vital Assembly constituencies in Kerala," a BJP leader in Agartala remarked.

The BJP-led NDA is contesting all 140 Assembly seats in Kerala, with elections scheduled for April 9.

The BJP is fielding candidates in 99 Assembly constituencies, while its allies will contest the remaining seats.

In the 2016 Assembly elections, the BJP marked its presence in Kerala by winning the Nemom constituency in Thiruvananthapuram district, though it lost the seat in the 2021 Assembly elections.

In the 2021 Assembly polls, the BJP finished second in nine constituencies, signaling increasing support among the populace.