Sat May 24 13:06:56 UTC 2025: **NEWS ARTICLE:**

**Kerala Opposition Leader Accuses LDF Government of Misleading Public on Progress**

**KOTTAYAM, India – May 24, 2025** – V.D. Satheesan, Leader of the Opposition in Kerala, sharply criticized the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government on Saturday, accusing them of presenting a misleading progress report that glosses over critical failures.

Speaking at a press conference in Kottayam, Mr. Satheesan stated that the LDF government’s fourth-anniversary report, released earlier this week, “hides more than it reveals.” He specifically pointed to the deteriorating condition of National Highway 66, sarcastically suggesting Minister for Public Works P.A. Mohamed Riyas should “shoot a few reels” at the damaged sites. Satheesan demanded a comprehensive investigation into alleged corruption in the highway’s construction, raising concerns about engineering oversights and questionable sub-contracting practices.

The Opposition leader also refuted Chief Minister’s claim that the state faced no financial crisis, highlighting outstanding payments to various essential services including the Medical Services Corporation Ltd, Supplyco, ASHA workers, and mid-day meal providers. He alleged widespread financial mismanagement, citing substantial salary arrears, unpaid bills in the Jal Jeevan Mission, and losses incurred by KSEB (Kerala State Electricity Board). He also criticized the government’s failure to implement promised rubber support prices, paddy and coconut procurement programs, and coastal and high-range development packages.

Despite these criticisms, Mr. Satheesan expressed strong confidence in the United Democratic Front (UDF)’s chances in the upcoming local body elections, predicting a significant victory for the coalition.

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