New Delhi: Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has launched a sharp critique of the LDF-led government in Kerala, arguing that the state’s current economic model is unsustainable. The Thiruvananthapuram MP asserted that the state cannot continue to survive solely on "remittances, lotteries and liquor”, calling for a shift toward business-friendly policies under a potential UDF administration.

Tharoor highlighted what he described as severe financial mismanagement by the Pinarayi Vijayan government, claiming the state frequently exhausts its salary budget by mid-year.

Vision for ‘Kerala 2.0’

While acknowledging an anti-incumbency sentiment after a decade of Left rule, Tharoor clarified that the UDF’s campaign is built on a proactive platform he calls ‘Kerala 2.0’. He noted that the coalition is offering five specific guarantees, including free bus travel for women and more reliable pension disbursements.

"We in Kerala cannot remain reliant on remittances, lotteries and liquor, which is essentially what is keeping the state going," Tharoor stated. He expressed concern over the state's spending priorities, noting, "Do you know that we actually spent more money on debt servicing, interests on debts and on salaries and pensions than we do on all of our development projects put together. It is a disgrace."

A call for private enterprise

Tharoor argued against further taxing a population that he claims is already the "most highly taxed people in India”, citing record-high property taxes and stamp duties. Instead, he advocated for generating revenue through new ventures and a more open business environment.

"What we need now is revenue to be generated by new businesses, new ventures," Tharoor asserted, adding that the UDF has a suite of fresh ideas to modernise the state's economy.

The electoral landscape

As the state prepares for the April 9 election for the 140-seat Assembly, Tharoor dismissed the BJP as a major factor in the race. He characterised the upcoming vote as a direct battle between the LDF and the UDF, labeling the BJP a "zero-seat party in the assembly”.

In the previous 2021 elections, the LDF made history by retaining power with 99 seats, while the UDF secured 41. The BJP failed to win a single seat.

PTI