At long last the Kerala Congress (M) [KC(M)] has decided to sever its ties with the United Democratic Front (UDF) for all practical purposes and will form a separate block in the Assembly.
The party which has two MPs, one each in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, will extend issue-based support to the United Progressive Alliance (UPA).
Announcing the end of the 35-year-old relationship, party chairman K.M. Mani said the party was exiting the coalition with pain, but in the face of the concerted efforts to weaken the party and attacks on the party leader, the party had to take this decision.
The party would discharge its duties as a constructive Opposition while functioning as a separate block, he said
UDF weakened by leaders: Mani
Mr. Mani said the party would now focus on strengthening its cadres in the coming days, undertaking a membership drive and a campaign to build up the organisation. The State committee meeting of the party, scheduled for August 14, would finalise the plan of action. It would also come up with alternate plan to pep up the sagging fortunes of the farming community, Mr Mani added.
Speaking to the media at the end of the two-day party conclave at Charalkunnu on Sunday, Mr Mani said, “We believe that moving independently would be more beneficial to the farming community.”
He said the party was moving out with a heavy heart since the KC(M) had played a key role in the growth of the UDF during the last three decades or more. “However, this is inevitable. We are moving out with sadness,” he said.
Coalition ties
Mr. Mani, however, said the party would fulfil its commitments to coalition partners at the local body level as the party was not ready to breach such agreements. He alleged that the UDF as a coalition had been weakened on account of the actions from a section of its leaders who were functioning against the interests of the coalition and sense of justice. According to him, certain persons in the Congress leadership were treating his party as ‘enemy No. 1.’ “Special ‘battalions’ were sent to weaken the party candidates and even special funds were used for the purpose during the Assembly elections,” he alleged.
Youth Congress protest
KC(M) leaders returning after the conclave were received by black flag waving Youth Congress workers. At least one person, driver of former MLA Joseph M. Puthussery, received injuries in the melee. The Youth Congress members announced a State-wide protest against KC(M) leaders.
