PM Modi Dismisses Rumors of Lok Sabha Seat Reduction in Southern States
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a National Democratic Alliance (NDA) election rally in Thiruvalla on Saturday, categorically denied rumors that Lok Sabha seats would be reduced in southern Indian states. He emphasized that states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Goa, and Telangana, which have successfully controlled their populations, will not lose any parliamentary representation.
Protection for States with Lower Population Growth
"There are false rumors circulating that seats will be cut in south Indian states, but this is entirely baseless," Modi stated. "Parliament will implement measures to fully safeguard their seats. States that have excelled in population control must retain their Lok Sabha seats, even if their population growth rates are lower." He assured that the total number of seats would be increased to benefit all states across the nation.
Criticism of Kerala's Political Fronts
Modi took aim at Kerala's Left Democratic Front (LDF) and United Democratic Front (UDF), accusing them of engaging in a fake rivalry. "LDF and UDF are accusing each other of being the BJP's 'B-team' because they recognize the saffron party as the 'A-team' in Kerala," he remarked. He alleged that their hostility is superficial, as they collaborate behind the scenes in Kerala and are part of the INDIA bloc in other states.
Additionally, Modi accused both fronts of spreading misinformation about proposed amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA). He asserted that their actions are aimed at misleading the public.
Commitment to Punish Sabarimala Gold Scam Culprits
On the Sabarimala gold scam, Modi expressed concern that the temple has become "a target of loot" for both political fronts. "If the NDA returns to power, all individuals involved in this case will face appropriate punishment," he vowed. He reiterated the NDA's dedication to Kerala's development, promising that achievements unattained over the past five decades would be realized within five years under an NDA government. "This is Modi's guarantee," he declared.
Modi confidently predicted the end of the LDF government's tenure, stating that the countdown has begun and, for the first time, an NDA government will assume power in Kerala.
Focus on Tamil Nadu's Financial Situation
In a separate development in Chennai, Prime Minister Modi chaired a meeting to review election preparedness with members of the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Tamil Nadu core committee. During the session at a hotel on Saturday, he directed party functionaries to develop a counter-narrative against the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) during the upcoming election campaign.
Modi instructed senior leaders to target the M.K. Stalin-led government on the state's financial condition and what the BJP describes as a failure to effectively utilize funds allocated by the central government. The Prime Minister also engaged in one-on-one discussions with select BJP politicians to strategize further.
This dual focus on Kerala and Tamil Nadu underscores the NDA's intensified efforts to strengthen its presence in southern India ahead of the elections, combining assurances of parliamentary seat protection with sharp critiques of incumbent state governments.
