Former CPM MLA S. Rajendran has once again hinted at his intention to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), citing ongoing grievances with his former party. Rajendran, who has been vocal about feeling marginalized within the Communist Party of India (Marxist), expressed his willingness to explore BJP membership as a means to address what he perceives as injustices inflicted upon him by the CPM.
Speaking to reporters, Rajendran lamented the treatment he has received from the CPM, stating that the party continues to disregard his concerns. He alleged that despite his loyalty and dedication, the CPM leadership failed to engage him in the party’s election campaign activities, further exacerbating his sense of alienation. Rajendran placed blame on local CPM leaders, particularly singling out a district secretariat member from Moonnar for orchestrating what he described as “atrocities” against him.
Rajendran’s discontent with the CPM intensified following what he alleges are politically motivated legal actions taken against him and his family by the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government. He emphasized the importance of protecting his loved ones, asserting that his inability to safeguard his family’s well-being renders his continued association with the CPM untenable. Rajendran expressed readiness to seek support from any quarter to ensure the safety of his family and allies.
The former MLA recounted an invitation extended to him by BJP leader Prakash Javdekar to join the BJP during their initial meeting. Rajendran revealed that Javdekar expressed the BJP’s readiness to welcome him into the party fold at any time, signaling a potential shift in Rajendran’s political allegiance.
Rajendran’s political career within the CPM spans several significant roles, including serving as the Idukki District Panchayat president in 2003 and representing the Devikulam constituency of Idukki district in the Kerala Legislative Assembly for three consecutive terms in 2006, 2011, and 2016. However, tensions within the CPM escalated following a fallout with M.M. Mani, a former district secretary of the party and close confidant of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
Rajendran’s popularity, particularly among plantation workers in the hilly district of Idukki, has positioned him as a prominent figure in local politics. However, his strained relationship with Mani, another influential CPM leader in the region, has contributed to internal friction within the party.
The emergence of Rajendran’s potential defection to the BJP represents a significant blow to the CPM, already grappling with internal discord and political turbulence.
