UDF launches Puthu Yuga Yatra, vows to resist communalism

Kozhikode: UDF's statewide Puthu Yuga Yatra started from Kumbala in Kasaragod on Friday with opposition leader V D Satheesan saying that unlike typical pre-poll political rallies, this one will present concrete alternatives in every sector where LDF govt failed. He added that the yatra will mark a new era in Kerala's politics and governance. Inaugurating the yatra, AICC general secretary K C Venugopal said the first step by UDF on assuming power would be to ensure that all the accused in Sabarimala gold heist are put behind bars.Satheesan said Kerala is facing an unprecedented crisis, claiming that the state has never faced such total financial ruin in its administrative history. He said the economy has crumbled and spending is disproportionate to tax collection. There is no money for development or welfare activities, he said, adding that LDF govt has left a debt burden of nearly Rs 6L crore on the heads of Keralites.Satheesan said that a disillusioned younger generation is leaving Kerala in huge numbers and if the trend continues, the state will become an old age home in five years. He said the agri sector is ruined, the health sector is on a ventilator and coastal regions are in despair."Though we will criticize the govt, a major chunk of our yatra will be spent on discussing how the future of Kerala should be. Sector-wise development plans, formulated in consultation with experts, will be released during the yatra. We have comprehensive plans to transform Kerala into a destination for health and education, attracting people even from abroad. Roughly 75% of the journey time is dedicated to discussing these fundamental changes – from job creation to systemic reforms in education," he said, adding that the front would win over 100 seats in assembly elections.Satheesan said UDF's priority will be to ensure that communalism does not rear its head in state. He alleged that CPM is treading the path taken by Sangh Parivar."Sangh Parivar following the agenda of divisive politics for political exploitation is not surprising. CPM is now taking that path and people here have realized it. Team UDF will be there to resist communalism. We will not dilute our stand in this regard to win elections. There is no compromise. If anyone resorts to communalism during elections, we will question it," he said.The yatra will conclude in Thiruvananthapuram on March 7. KPCC chief Sunny Joseph, AICC general secretary Deepa Das Mushi, IUML national general secretary P K Kunhalikutty and UDF leaders were present at the event.