The Ambedkarite Democratic Front (ADF) on Wednesday announced its support for the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), alleging that development initiatives undertaken by the Left government have sidelined Adivasi, Dalit, and other marginalised communities.
In a statement, the ADF said that large infrastructure projects such as the Vizhinjam Port, national highways, and tunnel roads follow a development model that does not benefit ordinary taxpayers, including Dalits, Adivasis, fishermen, and low-income groups.
Addressing a press conference, ADF working president K Ambujakshan claimed that only 10% of the Plan Fund, constituting just one-seventh of the State’s total budget, is allocated for SC/ST development, and that a substantial portion of this remains underutilised.
He alleged that ₹7,411 crore earmarked for SC/ST welfare has been wasted over the past nine years, adversely affecting sectors such as education. According to him, delays in the disbursement of e-grants have forced nearly 150 SC/ST students to drop out of their studies.
The ADF, a joint platform representing around 65 SC/ST organisations, said there is growing concern among these communities that the continuation of Left rule could threaten the survival and welfare of marginalised sections.
The organisation also disputed Minister O R Kelu’s claim that e-grants were distributed without arrears. ADF general convenor M Geethanandan alleged that merely renaming colonies as “Unnathi” has not resulted in meaningful change.
He further claimed that 19,000 acres of land allocated by the central government for landless people remain undistributed. Additionally, he alleged that although a significant share of funds under the LIFE housing scheme comes from SC/ST allocations, beneficiaries from these communities continue to be overlooked.
The Kerala Legislative Assembly Election 2026 will be held in a single phase on April 9, 2026, with the counting of votes scheduled for May 4, 2026.
Courtesy : Makytoob Media
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