The Congress in Kerala has alleged horse-trading by the ruling LDF after an independent member, Jafar, abstained from a panchayat vice-president election, allowing the LDF to secure control. An audio clip purportedly features Jafar discussing a Rs 50 lakh bribe offer and the panchayat president post. The Congress has requested a Vigilance Department probe. The LDF has denied the allegations, with a CPI(M) leader stating the party does not need to buy votes and awaiting the investigation's outcome.