Thiruvananthapuram, March 22: Ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in Kerala on April 9, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has strongly defended his government’s ten-year tenure. He highlighted the expansion of infrastructure, revitalization of the social sector, and long-term planning as the foundation for the Left Democratic Front’s (LDF) potential third consecutive victory.
In an exclusive interview reflecting on his government’s journey since 2016, Vijayan stated that the LDF took charge during a time of “general discontent,” but prioritized infrastructure development as a key driver for growth.
He accused the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) of colluding with communal forces and criticized defectors from the Left. “These individuals will not find acceptance among the public,” he asserted.
Vijayan remarked, “In many instances, the UDF has aligned itself with communal forces. They have collaborated with the BJP in local body elections in certain areas, which was evident throughout the state. The UDF is associating with communal groups for a few votes and seats. We, in the LDF, are not prepared for such steps.”
On the issue of defectors, he stated, “Those who left the CPI(M) should not have done so. They are traitors to us and the public. They will not gain acceptance.”
Addressing the Sabarimala issue, the Chief Minister noted that it did not significantly impact local body elections, including in Pandalam, where results were positive and the government attempted to meet public expectations. He acknowledged that each local body faces unique governance challenges and issues affecting voting can vary by region.
Vijayan also mentioned recent changes in national highways, highlighting sections inaugurated by the Prime Minister that clearly demonstrate the state’s developmental direction. He pointed out that significant improvements have been made in key sectors like health, which were previously disorganized.
In education, he claimed substantial changes, stating that government schools, once on the brink of closure with around five lakh students dropping out, have been revitalized through an investment of ₹5,000 crores, the establishment of 50,000 smart classrooms, advanced laboratories, and improved teacher training. He noted that recognition from the NITI Aayog serves as proof of these efforts.
On infrastructure financing, Vijayan emphasized the revival of the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board, with investments increasing from an initial ₹50,000 crores in 2016 to over ₹1.10 lakh crores now. Major projects include the Hill Highway and Coastal Highway, with a total cost of ₹10,000 crores, and a bridge construction program exceeding its initial target of 100 structures, now reaching over 200.
Looking ahead, Vijayan referenced “Vision 2031,” a plan developed with expert consultation that sets regional development goals for the next five years. He noted that Kerala’s management during the COVID-19 pandemic received global acclaim for effectively controlling the crisis.
He also highlighted Kerala’s infant mortality rate, which is significantly lower than global standards, and prioritized higher education and research, mentioning that 18 of the country’s top 100 colleges are in Kerala. The government is working on establishing 13 centers of excellence and expanding skill development programs to prepare youth for global competition and attract multinational investments.
Politically, Vijayan dismissed the prospects of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), stating that the state would not “open its doors” to them and predicted that the party would not win a single seat.
Vijayan concluded by asserting that the vision of a “New Kerala” by 2031 is not merely a fantasy but an achievable goal based on a decade of governance.