The BJP’s Kerala unit is navigating choppy waters ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, releasing a second candidate list on Thursday to pacify disgruntled leaders. Prominent among the 39 names is former state president Kummannam Rajasekharan, announced for the Aranmula constituency close to Sabarimala.
This comes after the March 16 first list of 47 candidates omitted key figures like Rajasekharan, igniting a firestorm of criticism within the ranks. The swift recalibration reflects the high stakes as the party seeks to unify ahead of the crucial vote.
Known for his firm stand against unrestricted women’s entry to Sabarimala, Rajasekharan commands loyalty among traditional voters. His nomination is a calculated bid to reclaim momentum in a region where cultural sentiments run high.
Adding diversity, the list features Dr. Pratap, a celebrated heart specialist now contesting from Kollam after switching to BJP. Such high-profile inductions highlight the party’s strategy to blend ideology with professional credibility.
Kerala’s political landscape remains daunting for BJP, which holds zero seats in the assembly after forfeiting Nemom in recent years. With voting set for April 9, the saffron outfit is ramping up efforts to challenge the entrenched Left and Congress fronts. Will this olive branch to veterans turn the tide?