The Opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) in Kerala released its election manifesto on Monday for the forthcoming local body polls, promising key social welfare measures. These include the construction of five lakh houses for those in need over the next five years and the introduction of a special action plan aimed at eradicating poverty.
The manifesto was unveiled by Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly, VD Satheesan, in the presence of senior front leaders, including KPCC Chief Sunny Joseph and IUML veteran PK Kunhalikutty.
The two-phased Local Self-Government Department (LSGD) elections are scheduled for December 9 and 11.
Satheesan announced the launch of ‘Ashraya 2.0’, a poverty alleviation scheme first introduced by the previous UDF government but subsequently shelved by the LDF government. A special action plan will be formulated specifically to eradicate the poverty of yellow and pink ration card holders.
A special monthly allowance of ₹2,000 is promised for ASHA workers. The pledge has particular significance as the UDF had previously offered full support to these workers during their agitation in front of the Secretariat over various demands.
The manifesto underscores promise to make "Housing for all" a reality— committing to the construction of five lakh houses within the next five years.
For the first time in the state's history, the UDF promised to provide unconditional development funds to all wards across Kerala. An exclusive programme dedicated to the welfare of the elderly is also promised.
The UDF also focused on practical issues affecting public health and local sanitation. The manifesto guaranteed complete waste collection, including bio-waste from households, and a permanent solution to the pervasive problem of stray dogs. A mobile Animal Birth Control (ABC) unit will be established in each ward once a month for continuous sterilisation and vaccination drives. Dog shelters will also be opened wherever necessary.
The UDF promised to set up a special squad to ensure cleanliness in the event of outbreaks of diseases such as amoebic encephalitis, jaundice, typhoid, and cholera. Special squads will be formed within local self-government institutions to effectively address issues arising from human-animal conflicts.
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