BJP's Victory in Thiruvananthapuram: A New Era for Kerala Politics
A Strategic Win for BJP in Local Elections
The recent success of the BJP in the municipal elections in Thiruvananthapuram is being hailed as a significant stepping stone for the party's broader electoral ambitions in Kerala. This boost comes from a letter written by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the newly elected Mayor, VV Rajesh.
In his correspondence, Modi launched a sharp critique against the opposing political alliances in Kerala, namely the CPI(M)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), accusing them of orchestrating a 'fixed match' in the state. He emphasized that the BJP's inaugural victory in the Thiruvananthapuram municipality marks the end of this arrangement.
Modi's Strong Message
Modi stated, "The fixed match between LDF and UDF—friends in Delhi and foes in Kerala—is coming to an end. Kerala desires freedom from their false promises." Currently, the LDF governs the state, while the UDF is led by Congress. Despite being political rivals in Kerala, both parties collaborate nationally under the INDIA alliance.
A Historic Moment for BJP
The Prime Minister described the BJP's emergence as a dominant force in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation as a 'game-changing' event. He congratulated Rajesh, Deputy Mayor GS Asha Nath, and other party leaders on their recent electoral success, calling it a moment of immense pride and joy, a milestone written in 'golden letters.'
A New Dawn for Kerala
According to Modi, history was made when the Mayor and Deputy Mayor took their oaths, indicating a preparation for a new dawn among the people of Kerala, particularly the youth and women.
He further asserted that the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance is emerging as a credible alternative based on nationalism without discrimination, development free from corruption, and governance devoid of appeasement.
Acknowledging the Party's Journey
In praising the party, Modi noted that BJP workers have endured a long and challenging journey in Kerala, which he attributed to the poor governance of both the LDF and UDF. He accused both fronts of fostering a culture of corruption and violence but commended BJP workers for their resilience and commitment to the 'India First' ideology.
Reflecting on his visits to Thiruvananthapuram, Modi remarked that the blessings of Sri Padmanabhaswamy have led the city to produce leaders, social reformers, artists, and cultural figures. He stated that the vision for a 'developed Thiruvananthapuram' has garnered support across all societal segments, aided by the awareness generated from the central government's urban development initiatives in various states.
Inspiration from Great Leaders
He also referenced the teachings of Sri Narayana Guru, Mahatma Ayyankali, and Mannathu Padmanabhan, urging the new municipal leadership to draw inspiration from their ideals while serving the city.
The BJP secured 50 out of 101 seats in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation, which was previously governed by the CPI(M)-led LDF. The Kerala Assembly elections are anticipated to take place in March-April of this year.