M.M. Mani expresses contrition for blaming ‘ungrateful’ social welfare pension beneficiaries for LDF’s poll losses

Key Points

1. **M.M. Mani**, a veteran **CPI(M)** leader, expressed regret for his remarks on social welfare pension beneficiaries on **December 14, 2025**.
2. The **Left Democratic Front (LDF)** experienced a poor showing in the local body polls.
3. **M.M. Mani** blamed social welfare pension beneficiaries for the **LDF's** defeat.
4. **V.D. Satheesan**, Leader of the Opposition, criticized **M.M. Mani's** remarks.
5. **Sunny Joseph**, **KPCC** president, stated welfare pension is a right, not charity.
6. **M.A. Baby**, **CPI(M)** general secretary, distanced the party from **M.M. Mani's** statement.
7. **M.M. Mani** represents the Udumbumchola Assembly constituency in the Idukki district.
8. Approximately **62 lakh** low-income individuals benefit from social welfare pensions.