Why is SNDP's Strongman Natesan Relentlessly Targeting CPI?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a bold statement, Yoganaadam critiques the ongoing controversy surrounding Chief Minister Vijayan's ride with Natesan, highlighting deep-seated social biases. The editorial challenges the CPI's leadership to acknowledge the historical significance of backward communities within their ranks.
Key Takeaways
- Yoganaadam criticizes entrenched social discrimination.
- The incident exposes ongoing issues of untouchability in Kerala.
- Critiques are directed at the leadership of CPI for forgetting historical ties with backward communities.
- The Muslim League faces scrutiny for its political ambitions.
- Chief Minister's actions defended as appropriate.
Kollam, Jan 2 (NationPress) The mouthpiece of the Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana (SNDP) Yogam, Yoganaadam, delivered a scathing analysis on Friday regarding the uproar following Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's decision to provide a lift to Vellappally Natesan, the general secretary of the Prajapalana Yogam, in his official vehicle. The backlash, the publication argues, serves as a troubling reminder of persistent social inequities.
Natesan, who leads the influential Hindu Ezhava community, has faced criticism not only from the Congress but also from the CPI, the second-largest partner in the ruling Left coalition.
In a forceful editorial, the magazine asserts that the discussions surrounding the Chief Minister's actions unveil the “twisted and grotesque aspects of untouchability” that remain prevalent in Kerala, even 78 years post-Independence.
The derision and negative remarks that ensued from the incident, according to the editorial, highlight a failure to accept the social validation given to leaders from marginalized communities.
Yoganaadam has also voiced its discontent towards the Communist Party of India (CPI), claiming that the Ezhava and other underprivileged groups are the foundation of both the CPI(M) and CPI, yet this historical fact seems to have been overlooked by the current CPI leadership.
The publication argues that had the individual accompanying the Chief Minister been from an upper caste or minority community, the situation would not have escalated into a controversy.
The editorial further contends that there exists a calculated effort to depict the act of providing Vellappally Natesan with a ride as a serious violation, even branding it as “treasonous.”
According to the magazine, the backlash is solely rooted in the involvement of a leader from a backward community, exposing deep-rooted societal biases.
The Muslim League is also criticized, with Yoganaadam accusing the party of fostering ambitions to seize power through the UDF while promoting what they term “religious governance,” a sentiment bolstered by recent local body election outcomes.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan reiterated on Thursday that his actions were above reproach.
While reports suggest that certain factions within the CPI leadership are dissatisfied, this discontent appears to be centered around the Chief Minister's public rebuttal rather than the act itself, and is unlikely to be expressed openly.
Meanwhile, CPI(M) leaders have claimed that the Chief Minister's decision was a personal choice.
Point of View
It is crucial to present a balanced perspective. The ongoing debate highlights societal issues that persist within Kerala, underscoring the need for introspection within political parties. It is essential to recognize the contributions of backward communities to the state's political fabric, while also fostering an inclusive dialogue moving forward.
NationPress
02/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the controversy involving Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan?
The controversy arose when Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan offered a ride to Vellappally Natesan, leading to discussions about social discrimination in Kerala.
What does Yoganaadam's editorial argue?
The editorial argues that the backlash reflects deep-seated biases and the ongoing issues of untouchability in Kerala society, even after decades of independence.
How has the CPI responded to the incident?
The CPI has expressed dissatisfaction, focusing on the Chief Minister's public response rather than the act of giving a lift itself.
