Violence in Palakkad mars BJP's Christmas diplomacy efforts

Thiruvananthapuram: BJP's attempts to strengthen ties with the Christian community have faced a major setback due to communal tension in Palakkad. The initiative, which involves BJP leaders visiting bishops and Christian homes with cakes and greetings, has been overshadowed by protests against incidents of violence targeting Christmas celebrations. 

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in Christmas celebrations on Monday, the BJP leadership in Kerala found itself on the defensive. Teachers and students at Nallepilly Govt UP School were threatened by Sangh Parivar organisations over their Christmas celebrations. Subsequently, a protest was staged at Tattamangalam G B U P School, escalating tensions and prompting demands for a thorough investigation.

Adding to the BJP's predicament, those arrested in connection with the threats at Nallepilly were identified as leaders of the Viswa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal. This revelation has raised questions about the party's stance, as the BJP attributed the incidents to a conspiracy by those who have left the party.

In response, Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) and Youth Congress activists on Monday visited Nallepilly to express solidarity and distributed sweets. Left Democratic Front (LDF) convener T.P. Ramakrishnan condemned the incidents.

Opposition leader V.D. Satheesan criticised the BJP’s outreach to the Christian community, likening their actions to "wolves in sheep’s clothing" and accusing the party of hypocrisy.