Thiruvananthapuram, March 8 -- CPI(M) general secretary MA Baby on Sunday criticised Congress for announcing new schemes in Kerala, saying many of the benefits, including pension schemes for marginalised communities, were first introduced by the LDF during earlier governments.

Speaking to ANI, CPI (M) leader said, "During election times, Congress make many assurances to the people, but the people of Kerala would remember the facts. The pension scheme for marginalised sections of society was first introduced by the LDF at different stages, beginning with EK Nayanar when he was Chief Minister."

A day earlier, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi announced five major welfare guarantees aimed at strengthening social security and empowering women an...