Sun Jan 18 07:15:39 UTC 2026: # CPI(M) Leader S. Rajendran Defects to BJP Ahead of Kerala Assembly Elections

The Story:
In a significant political development ahead of the upcoming Kerala Assembly elections, three-time MLA and CPI(M) leader from Idukki district, S. Rajendran, has joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Rajendran accepted party membership from BJP State president Rajeev Chandrasekhar in Thiruvananthapuram on January 18, 2026. This move follows a period of strained relations between Rajendran and the CPI(M), including a suspension in January 2022 for allegedly attempting to undermine the party’s candidate in Devikulam.

Key Points:

  • S. Rajendran, a three-time MLA from the Devikulam constituency in Idukki district, has joined the BJP.
  • He was previously suspended from the CPI(M) in January 2022 for allegedly working against the party.
  • Rajendran cited the need for new political intervention to address the issues in the plantation sector as his reason for switching parties.
  • Former CPI leader Gurunathan and CPI(M) member Santhosh also joined the BJP along with Rajendran.
  • The BJP plans a three-pronged campaign focusing on developed Kerala, protection of faith, and safe Kerala.
  • BJP State president Rajeev Chandrasekhar highlighted the poor socio-economic conditions of the Hindu community in Kerala.

Critical Analysis:
The defection of a seasoned CPI(M) leader like S. Rajendran to the BJP suggests a calculated strategy by the BJP to gain ground in Kerala, a state where it has historically struggled. The BJP is strategically targeting influential figures with existing support bases, particularly within specific communities or sectors, as evidenced by Rajendran’s influence in the plantation sector and among the Tamil linguistic minority in Idukki.

Key Takeaways:

  • The defection represents a potential blow to the CPI(M)’s standing in the Idukki district, given Rajendran’s established influence.
  • The BJP is actively attempting to expand its influence in Kerala by attracting leaders from other parties.
  • The focus on the Hindu community’s socio-economic status is a key part of the BJP’s strategy to gain support.
  • The upcoming Assembly elections in Kerala are likely to be highly contested, with the BJP aiming to make significant gains.

Impact Analysis:

The defection of S. Rajendran could have several long-term implications for Kerala’s political landscape. Firstly, it could embolden other disgruntled leaders from the CPI(M) and other parties to consider joining the BJP, further weakening the existing political order. Secondly, it could lead to a realignment of political alliances within the state as parties seek to counter the BJP’s growing influence. Thirdly, the BJP’s focus on issues like the Hindu community’s socio-economic status could reshape the political discourse in Kerala, leading to a more polarized electorate. This event signifies a potential shift in Kerala’s political dynamics with the BJP playing a more assertive role in the state’s future.

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