SNDP Yogam General Secretary Vellappally Natesan has launched a scathing attack on both the ruling CPI(M)-led LDF and the opposition Congress-led UDF in Kerala, accusing them of pandering solely to the interests of the Muslim community. Speaking at a leadership meeting of the SNDP Yogam in Kottayam, Natesan warned that Kerala is on the path to becoming a Muslim-majority state if current trends continue.
“The current state of governance in Kerala appears to function only under the directives of Kanthapuram A. P. Aboobacker Musliyar ,” Natesan remarked, referring to the influential Sunni cleric in the state. He questioned the silence of organisations like Samastha, a sunni muslim organisation, over contentious issues such as the implementation of Zumba dance training in schools and changes in school timings, indirectly criticising the growing influence of Muslim religious leaders in policy matters.
He further alleged that Muslim political representation in Kerala is expanding rapidly, with demands for more seats in areas beyond Malabar, including Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi. “Their next target is the Chief Minister’s post. If this continues, Kerala will indeed become a Muslim-majority state, just as former CPI(M) Chief Minister VS Achuthanandan once warned,” he said.
Criticising the perceived double standards in how religious-based demands are treated in Kerala, Natesan said, “Other communities can freely talk about caste and get benefits, but when Ezhavas speak about their rights, it is met with criticism. The Ezhava community is only visible in employment guarantee schemes. This must change.”
On the controversy surrounding Zumba dance training in schools, Natesan reiterated his support for the government’s decision, which has faced opposition from sections of the Muslim community. “Their opposition is misplaced and aimed at creating unnecessary trouble. This is an attempt to stir religious sentiments. The government should not retreat; Zumba should be implemented,” he said, adding, “If someone says this is heading towards a religious state, it may not be entirely wrong.”
He also pointed out regional imbalances, claiming that districts like Kottayam are under the monopoly of select communities. Emphasising the need for greater representation, he called on SNDP members to actively seek power in areas where the community has influence. “We need more representatives in local elections,” Natesan concluded.
