UDF Faces Challenges in Kerala LS Elections
As the Lok Sabha election campaign approaches its climax, the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) finds itself in a challenging position. The UDF has a legacy to uphold in Thiruvananthapuram, Attingal, and Pathanamthitta, where veteran Congress leaders are the incumbents. The Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP), a key UDF ally, represents the Kollam LS segment.
However, defending incumbencies comes with disadvantages, especially after the UDF’s consecutive defeats in Kerala Assembly elections. This high-risk gamble aims to thwart the Left Democratic Front (LDF) and block a BJP surge. The UDF hopes a favorable poll outcome will pave the way for Opposition victory in the 2026 Assembly polls.
Secular-Liberal vs Hindutva
In contrast, the LDF and National Democratic Alliance (NDA) campaigns are seemingly unburdened by political baggage. Moreover, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decade-long rule has reshaped the electoral landscape. The 2024 LS polls have become a culture war between secular-liberal forces and a conservative population influenced by the Sangh Parivar’s brand of Hindutva.
Given Kerala’s significant Christian and Muslim populations, the divisive electoral battle resonates deeply. Issues like unemployment, cost of living, and wealth inequality have taken a backseat to polarizing topics such as Manipur, CAA, triple talaq, and NRC.
Watched Contests and Three-Way Races
Rahul Gandhi’s 2019 candidature from Wayanad boosted the Congress in Kerala. In Thiruvananthapuram, Shashi Tharoor faces veteran CPI leader Pannian Raveendran and BJP’s Rajeev Chandrasekhar. The LDF has positioned the contest as a working-class leader against elitists.
In Attingal, BJP candidate V. Muraleedharan aims to build on the momentum gained in 2019. He faces Congress incumbent Adoor Prakash and CPI(M)’s V. Joy. Ezhava community support will be crucial in this three-way race.
In Kollam, cinema stars M. Mukesh (CPI(M)) and G. Krishnakumar (BJP) add star power to their campaigns. However, incumbent MP N.K. Premachandran remains a formidable force. The LDF fears BJP tactical voting for Premachandran.
In Pathanamthitta, the BJP’s Anil K. Antony’s defection from Congress has made the battle awkward for incumbent Anto Antony. CPI(M)’s T. Thomas Isaac highlights the similarities between Congress and BJP.
Church influence, rubber politics, and environmental issues play significant roles in this constituency.
