Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Monday, 4 May described the emerging Kerala election result as a "historic day" that has exceeded expectations, as trends showed the United Democratic Front (UDF) heading towards a commanding victory in the state, potentially crossing the 100-seat mark.

Tharoor's Reaction

Speaking to reporters in Thiruvananthapuram, Tharoor said: "This is a historic day for us. It's a tremendous victory — one that, I dare say, most people would agree is even greater than we had expected. We are looking at an extraordinary result in Kerala, potentially crossing a hundred seats."

Tharoor underscored the historical significance of the shift, pointing out that the Communist Party of India (Marxist)-led Left had held around 60 seats consistently since 2001. "This time, for the first time in this century, they have lost that ground," he said.

National Implications for the Left

Tharoor also placed the Kerala result in a wider national context. "For the country, this is a major development. For the first time, there may be no Left government anywhere in India. They had already lost in West Bengal and Tripura, and now this result further reinforces that trend," he stated. This comes amid a broader pattern of Left decline across Indian states over the past two decades, making Kerala the last major Left bastion — one that now appears to have fallen.

UDF's Priorities and Chief Ministerial Question

On governance priorities, Tharoor stressed that the UDF would focus on "good governance, transformation, and changing a narrative that many people found disappointing." When asked about the alliance's chief ministerial face, he deferred to the party's central leadership, saying: "That, I don't know, only Delhi can decide. But I believe we should not delay and must honour the people's mandate by moving forward quickly."

Dismissing speculation about his own candidacy for the top post, Tharoor was categorical: "I am an MP in Delhi and will continue in that role. Whoever is chosen, I hope a UDF government will bring meaningful change. I will be happy to contribute in any way through advice, policy inputs, or support, but the responsibility will lie with someone else."

Congress Leaders Attribute Victory to Multiple Factors

Congress MP K. C. Venugopal attributed the win to anti-incumbency, proactive campaigning, collective leadership, and strong coordination backed by the party's central leadership. He also credited Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his consistent engagement with voters throughout the campaign.

Congress leader Sachin Pilot expressed confidence in the outcome, stating: "We are very happy that we are heading towards a decisive victory in Kerala. After a decade of Left rule, the people have clearly indicated their desire for change."

What Comes Next

With the UDF poised for a significant majority, attention now shifts to government formation and the choice of chief minister — a decision that, according to Tharoor, rests firmly with the party's high command in Delhi. The UDF's victory, if confirmed, would end an era of uninterrupted Left dominance in Kerala and reshape the political landscape of southern India.