UDF Surges Ahead in Kerala Assembly Elections, Eyed for Historic Shift

The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) is maintaining a strong lead in the Kerala Assembly elections, with counting indicating the opposition alliance is on course to hit its 100-seat target. As of Monday, the UDF was leading in 101 of the 140 seats, while the ruling CPI(M)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) trailed with leads in less than 40 constituencies.

Television reports suggest that if the Left Front fails to retain Kerala, it will lose its last ruling state in India. Initial setbacks were faced by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and several ministers, but Vijayan managed to regain the lead in his constituency. The trends indicate a significant swing towards the UDF, helped by minority vote consolidation and anti-incumbent sentiments against the LDF.

Euphoric celebrations erupted at the Congress headquarters as supporters commemorated the party's projected victory. Reacting to the trends, KPCC president Sunny Joseph dubbed it a rejection of the LDF's 'anti-people policies'. UDF's election campaign, led by Rahul Gandhi, focused on welfare promises, potentially influencing the electoral shift.

(With inputs from agencies.)