Tripura CM Manik Saha campaigns in Kerala, targets Left Front misrule, backs BJP candidates, and promotes Narendra Modi’s vision for “Viksit Keralam” ahead of crucial Assembly elections, signaling intensified political battle and expanding BJP footprint in southern India.
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Thursday launched a sharp attack on decades of Left governance, asserting that the state is poised for transformation under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Addressing a BJP election convention in Kalpetta, Saha rallied support for party candidate Prasanth Malavayal, urging voters to back the Bharatiya Janata Party’s vision of a “Viksit Keralam.” He emphasized that a collective mandate for the BJP would pave the way for development, stability, and good governance in the state.
“Our collective efforts will build a stronger and prosperous Kerala,” Saha declared, striking an optimistic tone while drawing comparisons with Tripura’s political journey.
Revisiting Left Front Rule
Highlighting his own state’s experience, Saha revisited what he termed as 35 years of “Left Front misrule” in Tripura. He argued that prolonged governance by the Left had hindered development and that a similar political shift in Kerala could unlock new opportunities for growth.
According to Saha, the BJP’s governance model—focused on infrastructure, welfare, and transparency—has already demonstrated tangible results in states where the party has expanded its footprint. He pointed to growing political traction in regions like Delhi and Odisha as indicators of a broader national trend.
“The wave of change is steadily gaining momentum across India, and Kerala will not remain untouched,” he added.
High-Stakes Contest in Dharmadam
Saha’s campaign tour also includes a crucial stop in the Dharmadam Assembly constituency, where he is set to address another election gathering at Town Junction in support of BJP candidate K. Renith. The constituency holds particular significance as it is currently represented by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who is seeking re-election.
Political observers view Dharmadam as a symbolic battleground where the BJP aims to challenge entrenched Left dominance while energizing its cadre and expanding voter outreach.
BJP’s Expanding Ambitions in Kerala
The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is contesting all 140 Assembly seats in Kerala, signaling an aggressive electoral strategy. The BJP itself has fielded candidates in 99 constituencies, while its allies are contesting the remaining seats.
Although the BJP’s electoral history in Kerala has been modest, the party made a breakthrough in the 2016 Assembly elections by winning the Nemom constituency in Thiruvananthapuram district. However, it lost the seat in 2021. Despite this setback, the party secured second place in nine constituencies, indicating emerging pockets of support.
Party leaders believe that sustained grassroots efforts and high-profile campaigns like Saha’s visit could translate into improved electoral performance this time.
Campaign Momentum Ahead of Polls
Polling for the Kerala Assembly elections is scheduled for April 9, setting the stage for a high-voltage contest among major political players. Saha’s visit is seen as part of a broader strategy to intensify the BJP’s campaign and connect with voters across key constituencies.
After concluding his Kerala tour, Saha is expected to return to Agartala to spearhead the BJP’s campaign for the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) elections and the Dharmanagar Assembly by-election. The TTAADC polls are slated for April 12, while the by-election will be held on April 9.
Message of Change and Development
Reinforcing his campaign message, Saha reiterated that Kerala stands at a crossroads, with an opportunity to embrace development-oriented governance.
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“Keralam is ready for change, development, and good governance under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” he said, urging voters to support the BJP in shaping a “stronger and brighter Keralam.”
