‘Congress has a deal with the people’: Tharoor says CPM-BJP deal won’t work in Kerala Polls 2026

Alappuzha (Kerala): Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Friday dismissed allegations of any electoral understanding between the CPM and the BJP, asserting that the Congress-led UDF has a “deal with the people” ahead of the Kerala Assembly elections.

Speaking during an election campaign in Kayamkulam, Tharoor said that if any political understanding exists, it would only be between the Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the BJP.

“The Left's aim is to continue in power. The BJP's aim is to eliminate the Congress. So if there is any deal, it will be between the Left and the BJP,” he said.

Tharoor alleged that the Left is attempting to benefit from a split in anti-incumbency votes, suggesting that any erosion of Congress support could work in favour of the ruling front.

“They know that if the BJP eats into Congress votes, it will benefit them. That is the deal,” he added.

Positioning the Congress as the primary alternative, Tharoor said the party is directly seeking public support. “We are asking people to stand with us. If we win, you will lead the state. A new government will address Kerala's issues,” he said.

He also stressed that voters in Kerala are politically aware. “Whatever deal may happen, people know that voting for the BJP is a waste. The BJP has no seats here. Even if they win two or three seats, can they form a government?” he asked, reiterating that the main contest remains between the UDF and LDF.

Targeting the LDF government, Tharoor accused it of failing to address key public concerns despite extensive public relations efforts. He criticised the reported spending of Rs 11.5 lakh from the public exchequer for an interview of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan by actor Mohanlal, saying such exercises do not resolve real issues.

The Congress leader highlighted inflation, governance concerns, and reports of missing gold from Sabarimala as major issues troubling voters. He also questioned how the ruling front could seek another term after what he described as a decade of “poor performance and corruption”.

Backing Congress candidate M Liju from Kayamkulam, Tharoor said capable and dynamic leaders are needed in the Assembly to drive development. He added that the Congress manifesto will be released soon, outlining a clear roadmap for growth, investment, and employment.

“Young people must assess whether there are enough job opportunities here and whether the state has attracted investments. We have a development vision and need young leadership to implement it,” he said.

PTI