The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) surged ahead in Kerala on Monday as counting for the April 9 Assembly elections progressed, with early trends indicating a decisive edge for the opposition alliance.
According to initial rounds, the UDF was leading in around 100 of the 140 Assembly constituencies, while the ruling CPI(M)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) trailed with leads in about 40 seats. The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) was ahead in just one constituency, as per early television trends.
If these trends hold, it would mark a significant political shift, potentially ending the LDF’s decade-long rule under Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and leaving the Left without power in any Indian state.
Several senior leaders of the ruling front, including ministers, were trailing in their constituencies. Vijayan himself was initially behind in his Dharmadam seat in Kannur district, while multiple cabinet colleagues also faced early deficits.
Analysts attribute the trend to anti-incumbency against the LDF government, which has been in power for two consecutive terms. Opposition parties had repeatedly raised issues of alleged corruption and nepotism, which appear to have influenced voter sentiment.
The UDF also seems to have benefited from consolidation of minority votes and a campaign focused on welfare measures, particularly targeting women and economically vulnerable sections.
If the trend converts into final results, it would reinforce Kerala’s traditional pattern of alternating power between the UDF and the LDF, while ending the Left’s bid for a rare third consecutive term.
In one notable contest, Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan initially trailed in North Paravoor but began closing the gap as counting advanced in favourable regions.
Reacting to the trends, Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee chief Sunny Joseph expressed confidence in a clear mandate for the UDF, stating that the alliance was on course to cross the 100-seat mark.
Counting began at 8 am across 140 centres, starting with postal ballots, with a clearer picture expected as more rounds are completed through the day.
