Malappuram: Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana (SNDP) Yogam General Secretary Vellappally Natesan’s recent comments on the socio-political situation in Malappuram have triggered a heated debate across Kerala’s political and social spectrum. Speaking out against what he described as the monopoly of the wealthy within the Muslim community over the education sector, Natesan claimed that the Ezhava community in Malappuram remains marginalised and backward, both socially and educationally.
“Some people are trying to label me as communal. But I was only highlighting the backwardness faced by our community,” Natesan clarified. He emphasised that Malappuram does not belong to any one community and that it is a land shared by all. He accused the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) of exhibiting secularism only in words, while allegedly neglecting and sidelining other communities. “The rich in the League control the education sector in Malappuram,” Natesan said, questioning the inclusivity of the Muslim League. He further asked why the League, which claims to stand for secularism and social justice, never fields Hindu candidates in elections. “The real communalists are those who preach secularism but practice otherwise,” he added. Responding to criticism from the Youth League, which had demanded an apology from Natesan for his comments, he stood firm. “File a case against me if you want. There is no social, political, or educational justice—doesn’t everyone see that?” Natesan asked defiantly.
His remarks found support from political figures like former BJP state president K. Surendran, who backed Natesan, stating, “What he said is true. In places where the geography is skewed, democracy and secularism get affected.” Current BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar also weighed in, alleging that certain religious groups were attempting to hijack the OBC reservation meant for the Ezhava community. “If that happens, the BJP will step in to protect the rights of the Ezhavas,” he said.
The Congress party also came out strongly against Vellappally Natesan, criticizing his statements as divisive and inflammatory. However, critics have pointed out that when Hindu sentiments are hurt, or issues like the Waqf Board controversy emerge, parties, including the Congress, often remain silent. This perceived double standard has raised a larger question about selective secularism and fairness in Kerala’s political discourse.
This is not the first time Malappuram has come under scrutiny. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had, earlier in 2024, told The Hindu that anti-national activities, including gold smuggling, were being reported in the district. However, he later softened his stance, reportedly due to pressure and concerns raised by influential Muslim religious leaders.
