LDF confident of third consecutive term in Kerala, dismisses exit polls

Thiruvananthapuram: Despite exit polls predicting a reduced tally compared to its 2021 performance, LDF remains confident of retaining power in Kerala, with internal assessments indicating a possible win in almost 75 seats. CPM leadership believes the front will perform strongly in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, Thrissur, Palakkad, Kannur and Kasaragod. Pointing to previous poll trends, leaders noted that while exit polls predicted 80 seats in 2021, LDF eventually secured 99. This time, they expect to surpass the 60-70 seats projected by most surveys.Rejecting the credibility of exit polls, CPM state secretary M V Govindan said the party's claim of a third consecutive term under chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan rests on clear calculations rather than rhetoric. Addressing the media on Sunday, he asserted that LDF will return to power with a comfortable majority.Taking a swipe at the Congress over the debate on UDF's chief ministerial face, Govindan said the opposition camp is witnessing internal strife rather than discussion. He added that BJP is unlikely to win a seat in Kerala.Govindan said that his front's confidence rests on the reasons it presented during assembly elections. People embraced our efforts to transform the state into a new Kerala. Over 62 lakh people have consistently received a monthly pension of Rs 2,000, which will now increase to Rs 3,000, a promise they find credible. The govt has given women Rs 1,000 as part of women's safety scheme. To help young people secure jobs after completing their studies, the govt will provide Rs 1,000 to 5,00,000 individuals to enrol in new courses, he said.LDF aims to create a new Kerala by supporting all sections of the society, including anganwadi workers and ASHAs, and by standing with the poor, he added.LDF leaders expressed confidence that ministers who faced tough contests will emerge victorious, albeit with narrower margins. LDF convener TP Ramakrishnan said despite intense competition in several constituencies, the front expects continuity in governance. He dismissed exit poll findings as not reflecting public sentiment and said the focus remains solely on victory.‘Govt delivered on all fronts'Meanwhile, CPM leader K N Balagopal radiated confidence on Sunday that LDF will return to power in Kerala, citing feedback received from the public. "The indications we are getting from the people are positive. We sincerely believe LDF will secure a majority," he told reporters, adding that the govt has delivered on all fronts within its capacity.Criticizing Congress, he claimed the states governed by that party face financial strain, with delays in salary payments and pension disbursement. He questioned the credibility of the Congress's poll promises, alleging that similar assurances, including the guarantee schemes promised in Telangana, have not been fully implemented. "In Kerala too, people are unlikely to trust Congress. LDF has a strong base of socially-committed workers who stand with the people," he said.Balagopal added that Congress's visible campaign efforts, such as putting up boards and posters, are not merely a reflection of confidence but also an attempt to retain public support. He added that assembly elections cannot be compared with local body polls.Highlighting the state's financial position, he claimed Kerala's economy improved significantly under LDF govt. "We are stepping down with a balance exceeding Rs 4,000 crore. The state also recorded its highest-ever tax collection in April," he said.