United Democratic Front (UDF) candidate Sandeep Varier on Thursday (March 19) asserted that Trikaripur was no longer a stronghold of the Left Democratic Front (LDF), expressing confidence that the constituency would witness a historic political shift in the upcoming Assembly elections.

Mr. Varier, who received a rousing reception in the constituency, said the electoral battle in Trikaripur would be intense and hinted at a surprise outcome, describing the situation as a “Vadakara moment”, a reference to an unexpected political turnaround.

He maintained that although Trikaripur had long been considered a Left bastion, the political climate had undergone significant change. “No fortress is permanent in a democracy. If the people decide, any strong fortress can fall,” he said.

Dismissing reports of internal dissent, Mr. Varier said the UDF was united. “Team UDF is working as one. All constituent parties are moving forward together, and there is strong enthusiasm among workers,” he added.

He said the campaign would intensify in the coming days, with a focus on local issues such as lack of development, unemployment, and other regional concerns. The support of youth and first-time voters would be crucial in determining the outcome, he noted.

Alleging “misrule” by the LDF over the past decade, Mr. Varier said the large turnout at his reception reflected the growing public support and indicated the possibility of the UDF winning the seat.

With Mr. Varier’s entry, Trikaripur is expected to witness a keen triangular contest this time, with UDF leaders expressing confidence that a new political chapter would be written in the constituency.