Is CM Vijayan Engaging in ‘Divide and Rule’ Politics?
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Synopsis
In a bold statement, Ramesh Chennithala accused Kerala's CM Pinarayi Vijayan of manipulating communal divisions for electoral gains. He argues that this 'divide and rule' tactic is reminiscent of colonial strategies and aims to secure power in the 2026 elections. Discover the implications of this political maneuvering in Kerala.
Key Takeaways
- Chennithala's accusations highlight political tensions in Kerala.
- The 'divide and rule' strategy is criticized as a tactic for securing electoral success.
- Vijayan's approach mirrors historical colonial strategies.
- Community sentiments are being strategically targeted by political parties.
- The dynamics of Kerala's politics are pivotal in the lead-up to the 2026 elections.
Alappuzha (Kerala), Jan 9 (NationPress) Senior Congress leader and CWC member Ramesh Chennithala has sharply criticized Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, accusing him of employing a divide and rule tactic aimed at creating religious divides among voters to secure his position in the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections.
During a press briefing, Chennithala contended that the Chief Minister is under the impression that fostering communal discord is essential for the CPI-M-led administration to prevail in the next electoral battle.
He asserted that the strategies pursued by the BJP and RSS over the years, which have failed to yield results, are now being actively embraced by the Left government in Kerala.
Chennithala opined that both minority and majority communalism are being deliberately promoted as part of a well-thought-out political agenda.
He noted that during the recent parliamentary elections, the Chief Minister heavily emphasized the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) to garner minority support, but the strategy ultimately fell flat with the voters of Kerala.
Post-defeat, he claimed, the CPI-M altered its course and started catering to majority communal sentiments, pointing to initiatives such as the proposed global Ayyappa congregation.
He drew comparisons to colonial practices, asserting that the divide and rule strategy first introduced by British Viceroy Lord Minto is now being mirrored in Kerala.
Chennithala accused the Chief Minister of vying with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in terms of communal polarization, suggesting that the BJP and CPI-M are acting more like partners than rivals.
The Congress leader further claimed that even members of the Left Democratic Front have acknowledged the increasing presence of the RSS in governance.
He referenced comments from CPI national leader Annie Raja and former LDF MLA P.V. Anvar, alleging that the state police have been lenient towards RSS affiliates in various cases.
Discussing the Sabarimala incidents, Chennithala questioned the government's actions, including the allowance for an RSS leader to hoist the national flag at a school under the current administration.
He also criticized senior CPI-M leader A.K. Balan for remarks that he believes reflect the Chief Minister's stance, despite opposition from the CPI-M state Secretary.
On other political matters, Chennithala mentioned that there have been no discussions regarding the return of the Jose K. Mani-led party to the UDF.
He emphasized that any information he had related to the Sabarimala gold-sheet issue has been communicated to the Special Investigation Team, leaving further inquiries to the investigators.
Point of View
The accusations leveled by Chennithala against CM Vijayan reflect a significant concern regarding communal tensions in politics. It highlights an ongoing struggle within Kerala's political sphere, emphasizing the need for transparent governance that prioritizes unity rather than division. The situation requires careful monitoring as political dynamics evolve leading up to the 2026 elections.
NationPress
10/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main accusation against CM Vijayan?
Ramesh Chennithala accuses CM Vijayan of employing a 'divide and rule' strategy to polarize voters along religious lines to maintain power in the 2026 Assembly elections.
How does Chennithala compare Vijayan's tactics?
Chennithala draws a parallel between Vijayan's tactics and the colonial 'divide and rule' strategy implemented by British Viceroy Lord Minto.
What was the response of voters to the CAA during the recent elections?
Chennithala stated that the strategy to use the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) to consolidate minority votes was rejected by Kerala's electorate.
What actions has the CPI-M taken after the electoral defeat?
Following their defeat, the CPI-M shifted its strategy to appease majority communal sentiments, such as proposing a global Ayyappa congregation.
What implications does this have for Kerala's future?
The accusations of communal polarization and the response from political parties may significantly impact the political landscape and voter sentiment leading up to the next elections.
