Kozhikode: A faction from the Kerala unit of Janata Dal (Secular) has decided to merge with Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). State secretary K Lohia-led faction will merge with RJD at a meeting scheduled on March 2 in Kozhikode.  

Lohia announced the decision in a media conference. He informed that the representatives from Kozhikode and leaders from other districts too will take part in the merger meeting. 

The move comes as RJD national leadership led by HD Deve Gowda joined the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

It may be noted that the Kerala JD(S) unit, which is in alliance with the LDF in the state, had rejected national leadership joining NDA. Also, JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy made it clear that the Kerala unit stands with LDF. 

However, both the Kerala unit and national entities have been using the same party flag and symbol. According to Lohia, this has been creating confusion among people. Lohia said that the Kerala unit of JD(S) is neglecting the pulse of the party workers and moving to keep away from it in the wake of these circumstances.