Comeback for LDF in Kerala

Exit poll surveys have, in unison, favoured the Left Democratic Front to assume power in Kerala, in keeping with the tradition of alternating governance every five years.

One pollster forecasts almost a wave-like situation, giving the LDF 88 to 101 seats in the 140-seat Assembly.

But CPI(M) state secretariat member Anathalavattom Anandan said he would be comfortable with 80-plus seats. That is his party’s calculation, he said, although he did not have data to contradict pollsters.

The surveys also indicate that the BJP might open its account in the Assembly, perhaps initiating a process of political realignment among coalition allies.

The survey results indicate that barring chief minister Oommen Chandy, no one was convinced by his claim that the ruling UDF would buck the trend this time on the strength of its government’s performance.