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UDF and LDF Candidates Compete in Kerala Deputy Speaker Election as BJP Abstains
Kerala Deputy Speaker poll: UDF, LDF contest as BJP MLAs abstain
Asianet Newsable
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The election for Deputy Speaker of the Kerala Legislative Assembly commenced with candidates from the ruling United Democratic Front (UDF) and opposition Left Democratic Front (LDF). BJP legislators abstained from voting, while the UDF government recently unveiled its policy agenda focused on economic growth and welfare initiatives.
- 01Voting for the Deputy Speaker began at 9 am in the Keralam Legislative Assembly in Thiruvananthapuram.
- 02UDF candidate Shanimol Osman is running against LDF nominee Muhammed Muhsin, while BJP MLAs chose not to participate in the vote.
- 03Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar's recent policy address outlined the UDF government's priorities, including economic growth and welfare initiatives.
- 04Key welfare promises include free travel for women on KSRTC buses and a monthly allowance of ₹1,000 for college-going female students.
- 05The new anti-narcotics campaign, 'Operation Toofaan,' aims to dismantle drug trafficking networks in Kerala.
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The election for the Deputy Speaker of the Keralam Legislative Assembly began on Tuesday morning in Thiruvananthapuram, featuring candidates from the ruling United Democratic Front (UDF) and the opposition Left Democratic Front (LDF). UDF candidate Shanimol Osman faces LDF nominee Muhammed Muhsin, while BJP legislators abstained from voting despite being present in the Assembly. This election follows Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar's recent policy address, which highlighted the UDF government's focus on economic growth, welfare programs, and public sector reforms. Among the announced welfare initiatives are free travel for women on KSRTC buses, a monthly allowance of ₹1,000 for female college students, and increased welfare pensions. The Governor also introduced 'Operation Toofaan,' a campaign aimed at combating drug trafficking in the state. This election marks a significant moment as the UDF returns to power after a decade, with Chief Minister VD Satheesan leading the newly formed government.
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The Deputy Speaker election and the UDF's policy agenda are likely to influence legislative priorities and welfare initiatives in Kerala.
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