Alappuzha (Kerala), Jan 31 (NationPress) As the Kerala Assembly elections approach, the leader of SNDP Yogam, a notable social service organization for the Ezhava community in Kerala, has accused the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) of wielding excessive influence over the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF). Additionally, he raised concerns that 'love jihad' remains a significant issue within the state.

Vellapalli Natesan, the general secretary of Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam, asserted that the Muslim League operates as a structured religious entity that capitalizes on divisions within the Hindu community for electoral benefits.

“There is no doubt that Congress is under the League’s influence. If Priyanka Gandhi aims to secure victory in Wayanad, she must seek assistance from Malappuram, the stronghold of the Muslim League,” Natesan remarked, drawing attention to the evolving power dynamics within the opposition coalition.

Currently, the IUML, a vital partner in the UDF, holds 15 MLAs in the 140-member Kerala Assembly as well as two Lok Sabha MPs from the state.

Recently, IUML leaders indicated that they would request additional seats from Congress for the upcoming Assembly elections, reigniting discussions about the alleged coercive tactics of their Congress ally.

Natesan further claimed that incidents of 'love jihad' have impacted his own family, alleging that his uncle’s granddaughter fell victim to such a scenario.

“Love jihad has existed; we cannot deny its occurrence. We have lived through it ourselves,” he stated, adding that certain factions within the community aim to establish a religious nation.

Reflecting on the past, Natesan noted that despite the SNDP Yogam's earlier collaboration with the Muslim League to advocate for rights of backward classes, the UDF failed to safeguard their interests after gaining power.

He referred to the Narendran Commission report, highlighting that while special recruitment initiatives were launched for Muslims, similar programs for other backward communities were overlooked.

Natesan also accused the League of obstructing the establishment of a primary school in Malappuram, despite applications submitted by the SNDP.

On the political landscape, Natesan observed a shift in the state's electoral atmosphere, noting that the Bharatiya Janata Party is gaining traction.

He credited former Union minister and current Kerala BJP president Rajeev Chandrasekhar for injecting a “clear change” and positive energy into the party's ranks.

“The BJP in Kerala is not declining; it is growing. I’m not suggesting they will win numerous seats, but their vote share will definitely rise,” he stated.

The Bharath Dharma Jana Sena, led by his son Thushar Vellappally, allies with the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance in Kerala, although Natesan is not part of this coalition and remains supportive of the LDF and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

Natesan also called for a broader coalition that includes tribal groups and Christian communities to navigate the current socio-political landscape.

He welcomed recent supportive remarks from Nair Service Society general secretary Sukumaran Nair, who defended Natesan against criticisms from Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan.

Emphasizing the need for unity across communities, he declared, “In the current situation of the country, cohesion from tribal to Christian communities is vital.”

Regarding his Padma award, Natesan expressed surprise, noting that while the state government did not endorse him, the Prime Minister’s office likely acted on separate recommendations.