India, Sept. 4 -- The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) on Wednesday termed the 'Global Ayyappa Sangamam', scheduled for September 20, as a ploy by the Kerala government to reap political dividends ahead of elections and posed several questions regarding the latter's position in connection with the Sabarimala temple and its traditions.

UDF chairman and Leader of the Opposition VD Satheesan, speaking to reporters after conducting an online meeting of the coalition on Tuesday, did not straightaway reject the invitation that had been extended by the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), organiser of the Sangamam, but set forth conditions before deciding to commit to the event.

Satheesan alleged that the CPI(M)-led government, which was...