Ruling LDF surges ahead

Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 16: The ruling CPI(M)-led LDF in Kerala on Wednesday appeared to make a sweep of the local body polls in the state, while the BJP seemed to have made some gains, leading in Pandalam, the centre of protests against women’s entry into Sabarimala, among others.
The Left front was leading in 514 grama panchayats, five corporations and 11 district panchayats, prompting Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to attribute the good show to the people of the state.
The outcome of the polls is seen as an indicator of the public mood ahead of the 2021 assembly elections in the state.
The Opposition Congress-led UDF was in the second spot, leading in over 400 local bodies.
The Left front is also ahead in 108 block panchayats, Vijayan told reporters here.
He also took to Twitter to thank the people for reposing faith in the ruling front.
“Thank you Kerala. Thank you for reposing faith in LDF. We are humbled by the trust and the confidence of the people of Kerala. This is a victory for secularism and inclusive development,” the chief minister said.
The Opposition Congress led UDF was leading in 375 grama panchayats, 44 block panchayats, 45 municipalities and three district panchayats. (PTI)