'LDF, UDF looted Kerala for decades': PM Modi during BJP poll campaign in Palakkad

Palakkad: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday arrived at Kotta Maidan here as part of the BJP’s Assembly election campaign. He landed at the Mercy College helipad in Palakkad town and reached Kotta Maidan via a roadshow organised along the route. The roadshow passed through the stretch from Mission School Junction to SBI Junction in the town. People from various parts of the district began arriving in Palakkad in the morning, with public entry to the venue allowed from 12 noon onwards.

Addressing the rally in Palakkad, Modi launched a sharp attack on both the UDF and the LDF, accusing them of "decades of corruption and political opportunism". He said that the two fronts had "looted" the state for years. "For decades, the LDF and the UDF have together looted Kerala… in this arrangement, our Kerala has remained trapped," he said. Referring to their rivalry in the state and cooperation elsewhere, he added, "The Congress and the Left abuse each other falsely… you must remain cautious of both of them." The Prime Minister also claimed that Kerala is "sending a message of change", with increasing support for the BJP among youth, women and farmers.

He asserted that the BJP-led NDA would form the next government in the state. "With the blessings of the people of Kerala… we will form the government here and leave no stone unturned in serving Kerala," he said. Modi further alleged misuse of central funds, saying the money "belonged to the people" but had been "looted". He added that both fronts fear the BJP's rise, as their "wrongdoings will be exposed", and said an NDA government would recover the funds and accelerate development in the state.

Modi further said that the Centre is working to ensure that the ongoing conflict in West Asia has minimal impact on India, while accusing the Congress of making "dangerous" remarks that could put Indian lives at risk for "political gains". Modi noted that many people from Kerala are employed in conflict-hit regions and said their safety remains a priority. "At this time, everyone's attention is on the war in West Asia. Our government is continuously working to ensure its impact on India is minimal," he said.

He added that he has been in constant touch with leaders of countries in the region since the conflict began, and that all nations are prioritising the safety of Indians stranded there. Indian embassies, he said, are working around the clock to support citizens and prevent hardship. Targeting the Congress, Modi alleged that statements made by the party on the issue were "dangerous" and could risk the lives of nearly one crore Indians living in Gulf countries for political advantage.

Senior BJP and NDA leaders, including Rajeev Chandrasekhar and Sabu Jacob, are present at the event. All 12 NDA candidates from Palakkad district are also in attendance. After the meeting, the Prime Minister left Palakkad by helicopter around 4 pm and is participating in a roadshow in Thrissur.