Sun Jan 18 10:26:59 UTC 2026: ### SNDP Yogam Leader Natesan Calls for Ezhava-Nair Unity, Criticizes IUML and Opposition Leader

The Story: Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana (SNDP) Yogam General Secretary Vellappally Natesan, speaking in Alappuzha on January 18, 2026, emphasized the importance of unity between the Nair and Ezhava communities in Kerala. He clarified that his criticisms were directed at communal elements within the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), not the Muslim community as a whole. He also launched a sharp critique against Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan, accusing him of being anti-Ezhava and fostering division.

Natesan announced an upcoming SNDP Yogam meeting on January 21 in Alappuzha. He defended his remarks concerning Malappuram, stating they were misinterpreted to paint him as communal and reiterated his support for cooperation with the Nair Service Society (NSS). He further asserted that the Congress party’s decline in Kerala was due to its dependence on the IUML’s influence, not his actions.

Key Points:

  • Vellappally Natesan calls for unity between Nairs and Ezhavas.
  • Natesan clarifies his criticism is against the communal tendencies within the IUML, not the Muslim community.
  • He accuses Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan of being inimical toward the Ezhava community.
  • An SNDP Yogam meeting is scheduled for January 21 in Alappuzha.
  • Natesan supports cooperation between the SNDP and NSS.

Critical Analysis:

The events of the past few days reveal a significant churning in Kerala’s socio-political landscape. Natesan’s call for Ezhava-Nair unity is likely a strategic move to consolidate Hindu votes, especially given the context of ongoing dialogues between RSS and Muslim leaders at the national level. His strong criticism of the IUML and the Congress, combined with his defense against accusations of communalism, suggests a potential realignment of political forces in Kerala. The upcoming SNDP Yogam meeting will likely be pivotal in determining the direction of this movement.

Key Takeaways:

  • Kerala politics could be heading towards a realignment based on community consolidation.
  • The relationship between Hindu and Muslim organizations is under scrutiny, influencing political narratives.
  • Vellappally Natesan is attempting to position himself as a unifying figure while simultaneously criticizing perceived opponents.
  • The SNDP Yogam’s upcoming meeting will be crucial in defining its future political strategies.
  • Accusations of communalism continue to be a potent tool in Kerala’s political discourse.

Impact Analysis:

The call for unity between the Ezhava and Nair communities, traditionally distinct social groups, could have long-term implications for Kerala’s political map. A successful consolidation of Hindu votes could significantly alter the balance of power, potentially weakening both the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) and the Left Democratic Front (LDF). The outcome of the SNDP Yogam meeting and the response from other community organizations will be crucial in determining the extent and longevity of this shift. The interplay between religious organizations and political parties in Kerala will likely become more complex and requires closer observation.

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