New govt in Kerla should remain sensitive to public sentiment: A K Antony

Thiruvananthapuram: Senior Congress leader A K Antony on Tuesday urged the new UDF govt to remain sensitive to public sentiment, cautioning that the mistakes committed by the CPM should not be repeated. Describing the electoral verdict as a "powerful anti-govt wave", Antony said even long-standing Marxist strongholds from Kasaragod to Thiruvananthapuram were unable to withstand the political shift. He, however, added that there was no need to "further wound" the CPM but stressed that the party must correct its course. "The attitude that there is no one to question the govt led to the defeat," Antony said. He also clarified that he does not wish for the collapse of the LDF but emphasised that the incoming UDF govt must recognise that "the people are the real masters." He underlined that improving the state's financial condition should be the top priority along with implementing the promises made during the election campaign. On the leadership question, Antony declined to comment on specific candidates for the chief minister's post, stating that all the names being discussed are capable and acceptable. "Since the time of Gandhi and Nehru, leadership contests have been part of the Congress tradition. The high command will listen to everyone and take a final decision. What we are witnessing now are healthy democratic moments," he said. Meanwhile, senior Congress leader K Muraleedharan said the UDF's decisive mandate brings with it greater responsibility and called on leaders to act with restraint and unity. Muraleedharan stressed that key decisions, including the selection of the chief minister, should be handled without internal discord. Referring to the 2001 experience, he warned that ignoring unity could lead to setbacks. "The UDF must function as a cohesive team and avoid repeating past mistakes," he said. He also observed that the CPM leadership should draw lessons from the defeat. Referring to national political dynamics, Muraleedharan said Prime Minister Narendra Modi focused on West Bengal in the recent elections and could now turn attention towards Kerala, urging politicians in the state to remain vigilant.
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