Modi spotlights Cong.-CPI(M) spar
The INDIA bloc wanted to prevent the BJP from beneting from seat adjustments or anti-incumbency factors in Kerala, West Bengal, Punjab, and other non-BJP-ruled States. Hence, it perceived that a three-pronged battle in regions such as Kerala would dwindle BJP’s chances. The ruling front and the Opposition know that any let-up in skirmishing would advantage the BJP in the State. Moreover, the erce jockeying between the Congress and the CPI(M) to control the Lok Sabha campaign narrative seemed calibrated to push the BJP into the penumbra of Kerala’s political picture.
Meanwhile, the CPI(M) and the Congress seemed focussed on trying to outdo each other in ripping open old wounds. Campaigning in Thiruvananthapuram, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi revisited old sore points between the Congress and the CPI(M) by attempting to tie Mr. Vijayan to past controversies, including gold smuggling.
Ms. Gandhi enraged the CPI(M) by asking why Central agencies gave Mr. Vijayan a wide berth. She suggested the “reprieve” was a quid pro quo for Mr. Vijayan’s incessant attacks on Mr. Gandhi.
LDF convener E.P. Jayarajan riposted harshly by asking the Congress why Central agencies had not arrested Mr. Gandhi in the National Herald corruption case. Mr. Vijayan repeated his accusation that Ms. Gandhi’s husband had escaped the CBI prosecution by purchasing electoral bonds worth ₹170 crore in the BJP’s favour.
CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury said public sentiment would harden in LDF’s favour whenever the Congress goaded the BJP to arrest Mr. Vijayan for no apparent reason.