The Kerala Congress (Mani) has decided to end its alliance with the United Democratic Front in the state. The party, which has an MP each in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, said it will now support the United Progressive Alliance on selective matters, The Hindu reported.

KC(M) Chairman KM Mani on Sunday said the party will operate as a separate block in the Assembly. Its decision to end the 35-year-long alliance stemmed from the continuous attack on him and efforts to weaken KC(M), he added. "...This is inevitable. We are moving out with sadness," Mani said, adding that KC(M) had played a vital role in improving UDF's stronghold in the state in the past 30 years.

Mani made the announcement on Sunday following a two-day party meeting in Charalkunnu. He, however, gave his assurance that KC(M) will not go back on its promises to coalition partners at the local-body level. Mani also alleged that the actions of a few leaders had weakened the UDF coalition as they were working against its interests.

The party will decide on further action at a state committee meeting on August 14, including a strategy to improve the state of the farming community in Kerala. KC(M) also plans to hold a campaign to attract more members and strengthen the party.