Kannur

UDF-backed independent candidate PV Anvar on Saturday claimed the ruling Left Democratic Front could lose power in Kerala and said Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan may end up becoming the Leader of the Opposition after the Assembly election results.

Speaking at a press conference in Kannur, Anvar said a “political tsunami” would be seen in the results across Kerala, including CPM strongholds like Kannur district. He alleged that many CPM workers were unhappy with the party leadership and would silently vote against the ruling alliance.

Anvar claimed similar dissatisfaction existed in constituencies such as Taliparamba and Payyannur, where former CPM leaders are contesting as independent candidates. He also alleged that several leaders across the state had rebelled against the party ahead of the elections.

The independent candidate further predicted that Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan would secure only a narrow victory in Dharmadam. He also claimed that Kerala minister Mohammed Riyas would lose from the Beypore constituency.

Expressing confidence about his own prospects, Anvar declared that he would definitely win the election. He even made a symbolic challenge, saying he was ready to shave his head and wear earrings if his prediction proved wrong.

Meanwhile, several exit polls have projected a strong performance for the Congress-led United Democratic Front. Axis My India estimated that the UDF could win between 78 and 90 seats in the 140-member Assembly, while the LDF may secure between 49 and 62 seats.

Other survey agencies, including People’s Pulse and JVC, also predicted an advantage for the UDF. Kerala recorded a voter turnout of 78.27 percent during polling held on April 9. The Assembly election results will be announced on May 4 along with results from Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Assam and Puducherry.