Kerala’s political landscape witnessed a dramatic realignment today as Reji Lukos, a prominent Left sympathizer, formally joined the BJP. His bold statement that ‘old ideologies are irrelevant now’ underscores a broader ideological churn in the state.
Speaking to reporters, Lukos recounted his evolution from a committed Marxist to a proponent of BJP’s development agenda. He lambasted the Left’s handling of key issues like youth employment and infrastructure, arguing they have lost touch with ground realities.
This high-profile crossover bolsters the BJP’s outreach in Kerala, a state where Hindutva politics has historically faced resistance. Lukos, with his grassroots connections in working-class circles, could help peel away traditional Left voters.
Background checks reveal Lukos’s long association with Left trade unions and student wings. His departure is a personal and political embarrassment for the CPI(M), already grappling with anti-incumbency after years in power.
BJP leaders framed the induction as validation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s inclusive vision. ‘Reji’s decision reflects the people’s mandate for progress over dogma,’ said a senior functionary.
Opposition parties cried foul, with LDF spokesperson labeling it a ‘paid defection.’ Congress echoed similar sentiments, urging voters to see through the ‘drama.’
Lukos vowed to work tirelessly for BJP’s victory in upcoming elections, promising to champion local issues under a nationalist framework. His switch raises intriguing questions about Kerala’s bipolar politics evolving into a tri-polar contest, injecting fresh uncertainty into the electoral calculus.
