While in the Opposition, the Congress repeatedly attacked Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society Ltd. as a beneficiary of the CPM Government. After assuming power, however, the Congress-led UDF Government has extended the Society’s permission to undertake government contracts without tender.
Without any surprise to Congress’ pre-election allegations, the UDF Government led by Chief Minister V.D. Satheeshan has renewed the exemption granted to the pro-CPM Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society Ltd., allowing it to continue undertaking government contracts without tender.
Not only, Uralungal Labour, the Finance Department has also extended the same exemption to 45 other companies.
Until the end of the CPM-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) Government on May 18, 2026, the Congress and the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) had consistently alleged that Uralungal was a CPM-backed organisation that benefited from non-tender contracts.
The earlier exemption had expired on May 31, 2026, and the fresh order extends it until the end of July 2026.
The Congress had raised several allegations regarding corruption and the poor performance of Uralungal.
Before the April 2026 Assembly elections, AICC General Secretary K.C. Venugopal had remarked that “what Uralungal is for Pinarayi is as good as what Adani is for Modi”.
He had also alleged that the Pinarayi Government was the most corrupt regime in Kerala and that Uralungal was the epicentre of corruption in the state.
Venugopal had further alleged that the CPM had earned crores of rupees by awarding contracts to Uralungal without inviting tenders. He had assured the people that once the UDF came to power, all the allegations would be investigated and those responsible would be brought to justice.
However, after assuming office, the Congress-led UDF has taken a complete somersault. By extending the exemption, the Government now conveys the message that Uralungal’s performance is satisfactory.
Critics say this is yet another example of the UDF going back on its promises after coming to power.
