Thiruvananthapuram, March 27 (NationPress) The claim of a covert alliance between the BJP and the CPI(M) has become a pivotal issue in Kerala's Assembly election campaign, sparking a fierce debate between Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the Leader of Opposition, V.D. Satheesan.

For two consecutive days, this dispute has dominated discussions, and on Friday, CM Vijayan firmly dismissed the allegations, asserting that the CPI(M) would not engage in 'petty political manoeuvres' merely for a few votes or seats.

“The public is observant and will react accordingly. Politics transcends simple calculations,” he stated, refuting any notions of a BJP-CPI(M) arrangement.

In an attempt to shift the narrative, the Chief Minister referred to historical electoral events, accusing the Congress party of previously collaborating with right-wing groups.

He mentioned examples from Vadakara and Beypore, alleging that there were efforts to consolidate anti-Left votes, which were ultimately rejected by the voters.

“When such coalitions were made known, the electorate opposed them, leading to significant victories for the Left,” he said, warning against underestimating the electorate's judgment.

CM Vijayan also countered accusations connecting him to the RSS during the 1977 elections, labeling them as 'baseless distortions.'

He insisted that anyone acquainted with the political dynamics in Kannur during that time would recognize that he was a target of RSS assaults.

“After many years, they assume any falsehood can be accepted as truth. The Congress is indulging in such propaganda,” he remarked.

Expanding his criticism, CM Vijayan highlighted historical instances, including attempts to undermine E.M.S. Namboodiripad, to contend that the Congress has, at times, tacitly cooperated with RSS-affiliated organizations.

He reaffirmed that the Left has consistently maintained a robust anti-communal stance.

The Chief Minister further condemned remarks from BJP leaders regarding religious representation in constituencies like Guruvayur, deeming them attempts to sow sectarian discord in Kerala’s political narrative.

“Kerala remains a stronghold of secularism, where individuals coexist without caste or religious animosity,” he emphasized.

Despite the rebuttal, the 'deal' allegation is gaining momentum in the early stages of the campaign, with the opposition persistently highlighting the issue.

Political analysts observe that this narrative aims to sway minority voting behaviors, particularly among Muslims, who represent over 25% of the state’s population and were instrumental in the Left's 2021 success.

As the CPI(M) aims to maintain its foothold in 2026, the stakes are incredibly high.

While the ruling coalition has mounted a robust defense, the continuity of this allegation ensures that it will remain a significant aspect of the campaign.