Kerala Assembly Elections 2026: Priyanka Gandhi slams LDF government, calls for change at rally in Kannur

Congress leader and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra launched a sharp criticism of the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) in Kerala, alleging corruption, rising unemployment, and governance failure in the State, while addressing an election rally at Peravur in Kannur on Monday.

Describing Kerala as a “jewel with immense potential,” she said the State stands out for its natural beauty, resources, and strong prospects in tourism and job creation.

“If there is one State with such potential, it is Kerala,” Ms. Vadra said, adding that its social fabric—where communities have coexisted peacefully for centuries—sets an example for the rest of India.

Ms. Vadra said the people of the State are intelligent, diligent, hard-working and well educated, but pointed out a growing mismatch between education and employment.

“Most young people are well educated, but many do not have jobs. Even those who do are often forced to leave the State,“ she said.

Criticising the LDF government, she alleged that the past decade has been marked by “greed and corruption”, weakening key sectors including health care despite the presence of skilled professionals. She said the State’s debt and unemployment levels are at a record high.

‘Secret deal’

Ms. Vadra further accused the ruling front of prioritising corporate interests over people, and alleged a “secret deal“ between the LDF and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ahead of the elections. She also raised concerns over alleged inaction on the Sabarimala gold theft case, and questioned the lack of scrutiny by Central agencies against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, while Opposition leaders face probes by agencies such as the ED and CBI.

Referring to the issues faced by minorities, Ms. Vadra pointed out the instances of attacks against them, regulatory challenges including the proposed FCRA amendment, and violence against Christian nuns in Chhattisgarh, and stated that “every community is facing problems.”

Calling for a change in governance in Kerala, Ms. Vadra said the State needs a government with a clear and inclusive vision. She outlined the State’s potential to emerge as a health care hub, an IT service centre, and to expand sectors such as dairy and tourism through planned development.

“This is the time to act,” she said, warning that a failure to bring change could result in “five more years of difficulty and struggle.”