Kerala Assembly polls 2026: UDF extends support to four rebel CPI(M) independents; inducts NJD

The opposition UDF in Kerala will support four independent candidates who recently quit the CPI(M) in the upcoming Assembly polls, Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan said on Saturday.

In a statement, Satheesan said the UDF would back G. Sudhakaran, who is contesting in Ambalappuzha constituency, P.K. Sasi in Ottapalam, T.K. Govindan in Taliparamba, and V. Kunhikrishnan in Payyannur, all of whom are contesting as independents after leaving the CPI(M).

He urged UDF workers to unite and work collectively to ensure the victory of these candidates in their respective constituencies. Satheesan also announced that the UDF has decided to induct the National Janata Dal (NJD), led by John John, as a constituent party of the front ahead of the upcoming Assembly polls. The Kerala Assembly has 140 seats.