Thiruvananthapuram: With the Kerala Assembly elections drawing closer, a noticeable shift is underway in the state’s political landscape, as workers and leaders from major parties are increasingly moving towards the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This trend, which includes defections even from traditionally strong ideological camps, has created unease within both the CPI(M) and the Congress.
Rising momentum for BJP ahead of polls
A growing perception that the BJP is poised to bag more seats in the Kerala Assembly this time, coupled with expectations of continued rule at the Centre under Narendra Modi, appears to be driving this shift. BJP leaders argue that workers from both Congress strongholds and CPI(M) bastions are gravitating towards the BJP, motivated by its development narrative and expanding political footprint.
The BJP leadership maintains that this migration reflects increasing public confidence in its governance model. They attribute the influx to the appeal of central development policies and the promise of political relevance in a state where the party has historically struggled to make electoral breakthroughs.
In regions such as Kizhakkambalam in Ernakulam district, the entry of members associated with the Twenty20 movement into the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has triggered notable political churn. This development is seen as significant, given Twenty20’s grassroots influence and its prior independent positioning. Local leaders and cadre-level workers aligning with NDA candidates are expected to influence vote shares in key constituencies. The repetition of this trend across multiple districts suggests that the BJP is not merely attracting isolated individuals but is witnessing a broader structural shift in political allegiance. Observers note that such cross-party migration, particularly from ideologically entrenched bases, is rare in Kerala’s traditionally bipolar political system.
High-profile defections and electoral calculations
Recent developments further indicate that the BJP is experiencing a phase of expansion in Kerala. Several prominent figures from political, social, and professional spheres are beginning to view the party as a viable alternative. The inclusion of regional outfits like Twenty20 into the NDA has also strengthened the BJP’s organisational and electoral base. Among the most significant political realignments is the entry of veteran leader and former MLA PC George and his son Sean George into the BJP fold. Both are now contesting elections in Kottayam district, adding weight to the party’s campaign. Their presence is expected to consolidate certain vote segments and challenge traditional party loyalties.
In Thiruvananthapuram district, candidates such as Smita Sundaresan (Varkala), T.N. Suresh (Kovalam), and B.S. Anoop (Chirayinkeezhu) represent the BJP’s attempt to expand its footprint across constituencies. The party believes that even incremental gains in vote share could translate into historic victories. The BJP’s confidence is rooted in the belief that if it manages to win even a few seats, it could fundamentally alter Kerala’s political dynamics. Such an outcome would mark the emergence of a credible third force in a state long dominated by the Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the United Democratic Front (UDF).
Another high-profile development is the defection of Padmaja Venugopal, daughter of former Congress Chief Minister K. Karunakaran, to the BJP. Though she is contesting from Thrissur, her move has sparked widespread political debate, particularly in Thiruvananthapuram, where ripple effects on Congress vote banks are anticipated. Similarly, leaders like former Vaikom MLA K. Ajith, son of veteran Left leader M.K. Kesavan, and former Munnar MLA S. Rajendran have joined the BJP, signalling a deeper penetration into Left strongholds. Rajendran’s induction was marked by a massive public gathering in Munnar, highlighting his continued influence among local voters.
Organisational impact and shifting political landscape
The migration of leaders with strong organisational backgrounds, especially those rooted in CPI(M) and Congress family networks, has raised concerns within both parties. Meanwhile, the BJP leadership remains optimistic that these developments will translate into tangible electoral gains. The party is banking on a combination of central government continuity, development-oriented messaging, and the credibility of new entrants to convert political momentum into votes.
In addition, figures from non-political backgrounds are also joining the BJP. Film director Major Ravi has entered active politics through the party and is contesting from Shornur in Palakkad district, further broadening BJP’s appeal among diverse voter groups.
At the local level, several Congress and Left leaders, including former candidates and grassroots organisers, have joined the BJP. These shifts, though individually small, collectively indicate a changing political mood in the state.
There are also indications that more leaders may switch allegiance in the coming days, intensifying the pre-election political realignment. The BJP views this as a sign of its growing acceptance and organisational expansion in Kerala. As the 2026 Assembly elections approach, these developments suggest that Kerala may be witnessing the gradual emergence of a third political force.
