Will BJP Ever Rule Kerala?
When it comes to the political landscape of Kerala, one question continues to linger: Will the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ever rule Kerala? Despite being a primarily Nair Christian and Muslim-majority state, recent developments hint at the possibility of a rapid political shift. This essay explores Kerala's political history, current trends, and the prospects for BJP rule, while also addressing the communal issues at play.
Historical Context and Successes of BJP
Examining similar scenarios, the BJP's journey in Kerala is instructive. In 2002, the BJP won just one seat in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly. By 2008, this number rose to 12, and in 2014, it surged to 25 seats, allowing BJP to become an equal partner in the government. This trajectory is evident in Kerala as well, where the BJP secured 35 seats in the capital state municipality, outperforming the Congress, which held the second position for decades.
The BJP's successful campaigns in these elections demonstrate a growing appeal to the electorate. Kerala's high ranking in religious harmony makes it an interesting case study. However, factors such as anti-incumbency, the uncertain future of the Congress party, and the past failures of the Left Front have recently opened Kerala to the BJP as a viable alternative.
Emergence of BJP in Kerala and Ethnical Dynamics
The BJP's recent forays into Kerala suggest an emerging force in a traditionally dominated political space. Unlike other parties, which rely on religious vote banks, the BJP approached the elections as a single entity, bringing with it the potential for significant growth. The National Servicemen's Scheme (NSS) may have posed a challenge, but this is gradually shifting, and the BJP is capitalizing on this change.
Recent figures indicate that the BJP has not yet fully ousted the Congress party, but it has made significant inroads. The party believes in leveraging the electorate's willingness to vote for deserving candidates, particularly those with mass appeal. The CPM, on the other hand, is facing a political backlash for its arrogance and lack of political maneuverability. Their current "adjustment politics" is costing them dearly, and they may need to reassess their strategy.
Communal Issues and Hindu Identity in Kerala
The communal issues in Kerala are multifaceted, and one of the most pressing concerns is the lack of ethnical and religious self-awareness among Hindus. Many Hindus in Kerala have been brainwashed by other religions and have lost connection with their Hindu identity. This is evident in practices such as consuming beef, which symbolizes a break with traditional cultural norms.
The argument that Hindus in Kerala are "pathetic and non-religious" is not just a criticism but a call for action. As Kerala's demographic shifts towards a Hindu minority, it is predicted that the Hindus will need to turn to the BJP for protection. The statement, "Dharmo rakshathi rakshithah, Kerala Hindus are not protecting their dharma, they won't be protected by the same dharma," reflects a growing concern among the community.
Hindus in Kerala must recognize that protecting their identity requires proactive engagement and support from a party like the BJP that aims to address communal issues. The BJP's approach to re-establishing Hinduism in Kerala is commendable, and even if it loses, it won't have a significant impact on the overall political landscape.
Conclusion
While the BJP is making strides in Kerala, the path to ruling the state remains uncertain. The political dynamics are shifting, and the communal issues at play must be addressed. The future of BJP rule in Kerala depends on its ability to build mass support and address the concerns of the Hindu community. The emergence of the BJP in Kerala is a significant development that cannot be overlooked.