"Voters Took Benefits & Voted Against Us," Says CPM Leader M.M. Mani As LDF Faces Setback In Local Body Polls

Idukki: Senior CPI(M) leader and MLA M.M. Mani has sparked a fresh controversy with sharp remarks against voters as the Left Democratic Front (LDF) faces major setbacks in the Kerala local body election results 2025.

Reacting to the adverse trends for the LDF as counting nears its final stages on Saturday, Mani alleged that voters showed “ingratitude” after accepting government benefits.

He claimed that people availed welfare schemes, pensions, development works, and infrastructure projects, but later voted against the ruling front.

“People took all the benefits, ate well, received good pensions, and then voted against us. If that is not ingratitude, what else can it be?” Mani said, in comments widely seen as mocking voters.

Also, read| Kerala Local Body Election Results Live: UDF Takes Early Lead As Tight Race Continues

He further suggested that voters acted on momentary emotions rather than evaluating the government’s welfare and development initiatives.

The remarks have drawn criticism, as they are perceived as dismissive of the electorate’s verdict. Mani’s comments come at a time when the LDF is losing ground in several local bodies, including key urban centres.

Meanwhile, LDF convenor T.P. Ramakrishnan struck a more measured tone, stating that the front would carefully review the election results.

He said corrective steps would be taken if necessary and described the BJP’s strong performance in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation as a serious and significant development. He also dismissed allegations of political deals.

Also, read| Kerala Local Body Polls: UDF Clinches Thrissur, NDA Surges In Thiruvananthapuram, LDF Leads In Kozhikode

This is not the first time M.M. Mani’s blunt and homespun political rhetoric has landed the CPI(M) in controversy. In the past, including during the 2024 election season, Mani’s sharp remarks against political opponents have backfired, drawing criticism from both rivals and within political circles.

The CPI(M) has often defended Mani’s rustic and aggressive style as characteristic of a high-range leader, but his latest comments are likely to fuel fresh debate amid the evolving political landscape in Kerala.