Kerala BJP Revamps Leadership with Focus on Women, Christians, and OBC Representation

Current Affairs National

Posted by NewAdmin on 2025-01-28 14:06:57 |

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The Kerala BJP is undergoing a significant organisational revamp, addressing internal issues and prioritising representation for women, Christians, and younger leaders. With 27 of 30 new district chiefs announced, the party is positioning itself to expand its influence in a state where its electoral presence has been limited.

Notably, four of the new district chiefs are women, surpassing the representation seen in the CPI(M) or Congress. Additionally, three Christian leaders have been appointed—a first for the BJP in Kerala—reflecting its broader strategy to court the Christian community, which comprises nearly 19% of the state’s population. Younger leaders under 45, as well as members from the Ezhava-Dheevara OBC and Scheduled Caste communities, are also among the new appointees.

The Bharat Dharma Jana Sena (BDJS), an ally with an OBC Hindu base, had earlier expressed dissatisfaction over unmet promises but appears to be aligning again following interventions by senior BJP leaders and the RSS. BDJS national president Thushar Vellappally confirmed the alliance remains intact, citing fulfilled demands such as key appointments in the Spices Board of India and other central institutions.

As the party moves towards selecting a new state chief, community and gender balance will remain a priority. Shobha Surendran, an OBC Ezhava leader, has emerged as a strong contender. Her appointment could strengthen ties with the BDJS and potentially attract support from the Ezhava community, historically aligned with the CPI(M).

The BJP’s focus on inclusivity also extends to Christians and upper-caste Nairs, with figures like Union Minister Suresh Gopi and Rajya Sabha MP George Kurian representing these groups. By balancing caste, community, and gender in its leadership, the BJP aims to consolidate its support base and make inroads into Kerala’s politically diverse landscape.

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