Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Assembly session beginning on Monday is expected to gather momentum quickly, with local body elections approaching and a range of pressing issues on the table. The opposition is gearing up to target the government, especially over allegations of police atrocities and increasing custodial violence.

One of the opposition’s key weapons will be CCTV footage from a police station, which appears to provide direct evidence of violence and will make it difficult for the ruling front to dismiss the claims. Citing repeated incidents of lock-up torture, the opposition is likely to portray the Home Department as a failure. Internal criticisms raised at recent CPM and CPI conferences will further strengthen their stance.

An official investigation into the incidents and possible action against the accused may be announced during the session. This could also end the chief minister’s prolonged silence on the matter.

Human-wildlife conflict and health system under scrutiny

The long-standing issue of wildlife attacks is also expected to return to the floor. The government plans to table a bill aimed at simplifying procedures for neutralising wild animals that enter human-inhabited areas. The move is seen as a response to mounting public pressure and will also provide support to Kerala Congress (M), which had earlier demanded a special session on the issue.

Meanwhile, the recent deaths due to amoebic encephalitis have sharpened the opposition’s focus on public health. Allegations made by Dr Haris Chirakkal about conditions in government medical colleges are likely to be used as further evidence of lapses in the health sector.

Governor-government clash and vice-chancellor row

The ongoing tension between the Governor and the state government is another flashpoint. The issue of appointing acting vice-chancellors, now in place at all but one university, is expected to trigger heated debate.

Government’s defence: Welfare and development

In response, the government will highlight its welfare initiatives for marginalised communities, and point to industrial growth and Kerala’s top rankings in central government assessments as evidence of effective governance.

The ruling party is also expected to project itself as a bulwark against the BJP’s influence, though the opposition will claim the true leadership in resisting the BJP lies with them, particularly through Rahul Gandhi’s 'vote chori' campaign. They are likely to criticise the chief minister’s silence on the issue, suggesting it reflects a reluctance to confront the BJP directly.

Debates could also touch on a range of recent events and platforms, from the Global Ayyappa Summit to the Minority Summit, giving both fronts ample political ammunition.

Congress may ask Rahul Mamkootathil to stay away

Meanwhile, the Congress party is considering advising suspended MLA Rahul Mamkootathil to stay away from the session. Opposition leaders fear his presence could divert attention from key issues, particularly police violence, and give the ruling party an opportunity to provoke disruption, or even physical clashes, on the floor. However, some within the party believe Rahul should make the decision himself. A final call on the matter is expected today.