Revanth Reddy (ANI image)
NEW DELHI: Telangana chief minister Revanth Reddy on Thursday unveiled United Democratic Front (UDF) manifesto ahead of the Kerala assembly elections.He also launched a scathing attack on the Pinarayi Vijayan-led government and declared that the ‘dark era’ in the state was coming to an end and a ‘golden era’ was beginning.The remarks were made in Kochi during the release of the Congress-led UDF’s manifesto for the upcoming elections. Addressing party workers and supporters, Reddy expressed confidence that the electorate was ready for a political shift and would vote out the incumbent Left government.He said the upcoming polls would mark a decisive turning point for Kerala, with public sentiment increasingly turning against the ruling dispensation. According to a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office, Reddy asserted that the people of the state were looking for change and would back the UDF.In a pointed political attack, Reddy also targeted both the Centre and the Kerala government, saying that India and Kerala were currently being ruled by the “Modi Brothers.”He further made an indirect reference to the Sabarimala gold controversy, alleging that even religious assets were not secure under the present administration. Referring to Kerala as “God’s Own Country,” he remarked that even “God’s own property” was not safe.Highlighting the UDF’s electoral promises, the manifesto outlines “Indira’s Five Guarantees,” which include free bus travel for women in KSRTC buses, a monthly financial assistance of Rs 1,000 for female college students, an increase in welfare pensions to Rs 3,000 per month, health insurance coverage of Rs 25 lakh per family named after former chief minister Oommen Chandy and interest-free loans of up to Rs 5 lakh for youth pursuing self-employment.In addition, the manifesto proposes five “Dream Projects” focusing on maritime and aviation sectors, along with the establishment of a Tribal University in Wayanad.Polling for the 2026 Kerala Legislative Assembly elections is scheduled to be held on April 9, while the counting of votes will take place on May 4. The tenure of the current assembly is set to end on May 23.
