Shashi Tharoor confident of UDF's victory in Kerala Assembly polls

Shashi Tharoor voiced confidence in the UDF's victory in the upcoming Kerala Assembly polls. He noted the CM choice rests with the High Command and emphasized the UDF's focus on job creation. He also criticized the FCRA Bill.

Congress Working Committee member and MP Shashi Tharoor on Friday expressed confidence that the United Democratic Front (UDF) will get a good majority in Kerala and regain power in the State He was attending the election campaign of the UDF candidate in the Vandoor constituency in the Malappuram district ahead of the April 9 Assembly polls.

Responding to a question on who would become the Chief Minister if the Congress-led UDF comes to power, Tharoor said it is not for him to decide. He added that the Congress High Command will decide after considering the views of the elected MLAs. Tharoor also stated that when the Women's Reservation Bill comes up in the Lok Sabha on the 16th, the party will clearly express its stand on the issue.

Focus on Development and Job Creation

Earlier, Shashi Tharoor campaigned for Congress candidate Pazhakulam Madhu from Ranni assembly constituency, saying the party is working for the future of Keralam and focusing on development and job creation under a UDF government. The polling for Keralam Assembly elections will be held in a single phase on April 9, with counting of votes scheduled for May 4.

Speaking to ANI, Tharoor said, "I believe we are working here for the future of Keralam. Whatever the Prime Minister may or may not do, we have to ensure Keralam's development under the UDF govt... Our people are leaving the state and going to other states and countries as they don't see enough possibilities here. We must create job opportunities here."

"I have been campaigning throughout the state. I am seeing very good results and very good feedback. We are going to win. The momentum is with us."

Criticism of FCRA Bill

Further, Tharoor criticised the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, calling it "terrible" and saying the government has no right to seize schools, hospitals, and orphanages run by church groups, and urged that the bill be referred to a standing committee for further review.

"It is a terrible bill. How can the government take on the right to confiscate schools, hospitals and orphanages built by church groups? The govt has no right to take over such schools and colleges. This amendment must go to a standing committee and be studied more carefully," he said. (ANI)

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