Kerala assembly polls: Why S Rajendran’s BJP switch may upset political equations for CPM, Congress

Devikulam, Kerala: Former CPM MLA S Rajendran’s entry into the BJP has brought renewed attention to the Devikulam assembly constituency ahead of the Kerala elections. Though there is speculation that he could be the NDA candidate from Devikulam, Rajendran has maintained that he will not contest the polls.

A three-time MLA, Rajendran has strong influence over the constituency’s caste dynamics. His long experience as a plantation labour leader has helped him build deep grassroots support. BJP district leaders are keen to project him as their candidate, given his local standing.

Rajendran has indicated that he has clearly conveyed to the NDA leadership that he is not interested in entering the electoral contest at present, suggesting that other matters may be taken up later.

Political equation in Devikulam

Rajendran was suspended by the CPM after it emerged that he had attempted to undermine the party’s candidate, A. Raja, during the 2021 Kerala assembly elections. Although the suspension ended before the last Lok Sabha polls, he chose not to renew his party membership.

Party sources point out that Rajendran has effectively been outside the CPM for five years and argue that his move to the NDA does not affect the party.

However, political observers say the situation in Devikulam is more complex. The constituency has a large voter base from the Paraiyar and Pallar communities, whose voting patterns often decide election outcomes. Rajendran enjoys influence in both groups, with stronger backing among the Pallar community.

If Rajendran campaigns actively or is named as the NDA candidate, it could lead to a split in CPM votes and weaken the party’s position in the seat.

Impact on local politics

Rajendran has announced plans to set up a society focused on the welfare of plantation workers. The initiative will include financial assistance, and its inauguration is expected to take place soon.

In the 2021 assembly elections, CPM candidate A. Raja won Devikulam with a margin of 7,848 votes. The NDA candidate from the BDJS secured 4,712 votes. Analysts say that if Rajendran manages to attract around 10,000 votes, it could hurt CPM’s chances, affect Congress vote share, and change the overall electoral outcome in the constituency.