Thiruvananthapuram: Senior Indian National Congress leader K C Venugopal on Sunday alleged a CPM-BJP nexus in Kerala elections, claiming that an understanding between the two parties would not succeed this time.

Addressing a press conference, the AICC general secretary said the United Democratic Front (UDF) is confident of victory and is preparing a governance roadmap focused on welfare schemes, transport reform and social security.

CPM-BJP Nexus Allegation in Kerala

Venugopal claimed that the CPM and the BJP share a tacit understanding in the ongoing election, citing policy alignments and political developments as indicators.

He pointed to issues such as the PM-SHRI scheme and the pace of investigations involving central agencies, suggesting these reflected a broader political equation. He also alleged that candidate selections in both parties indicated a strategic arrangement aimed at mutual electoral advantage.

Despite these claims, Venugopal expressed confidence that voters and party workers would reject any such political alignment, noting that similar attempts had failed in the past.

UDF promises free KSRTC bus travel for women

Highlighting key election promises, Venugopal reiterated that the UDF would introduce free KSRTC bus travel for women if voted to power. He said the scheme would particularly benefit women working in sectors such as coir, cashew, fishing, handloom and rural employment programmes, helping ease rising living costs.

The proposal, he added, would be backed by government financial support to the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), dismissing concerns about its financial viability. Similar free bus travel schemes in states such as Karnataka and Telangana were cited as workable models.

Welfare pension, healthcare and manifesto plans

Venugopal also criticised the ruling LDF over welfare delivery, alleging that a promised pension increase to Rs 2,500 was only partially implemented. He said the Congress-led alliance would raise the welfare pension to Rs 3,000 if elected.

He further announced plans for a new health insurance scheme, modelled on initiatives in Rajasthan, aimed at expanding affordable healthcare access in Kerala.

A detailed Kerala election manifesto outlining sector-specific projects and development plans will be released soon, he added.

UDF eyes strong mandate in Kerala

Expressing confidence in the electoral outcome, Venugopal said the UDF is targeting a decisive mandate, projecting a win of around 100 seats in the Kerala Assembly.

PTI