Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday projected the Bharatiya Janata Party's breakthrough in Kerala's capital as the beginning of a significant political transformation in the state. Addressing a massive rally at Putharikandam Maidan in Thiruvananthapuram, the Prime Minister asserted that the party's recent victory in the Thiruvananthapuram municipal corporation reflects growing public confidence ahead of the crucial assembly elections scheduled for later this year.
Drawing Parallels with Gujarat's Political Journey
PM Modi drew compelling historical parallels between the BJP's current position in Kerala and its early growth trajectory in Gujarat. He recalled that before 1987, the BJP was a marginal political force in Gujarat that received minimal attention from both media and voters.
"In 1987, for the first time, the BJP won control of the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, much like our recent victory in Thiruvananthapuram," PM Modi stated, as quoted by news agency PTI. "Since that initial breakthrough, the people of Gujarat have consistently entrusted us with opportunities to serve, and we have continued to do so for decades."
The Prime Minister elaborated on this comparison, noting that just as the BJP's journey in Gujarat began with a single city, the party's political beginnings in Kerala have now started with Thiruvananthapuram. He expressed confidence that this development indicates the people of Kerala are beginning to place their trust in the BJP, mirroring the pattern established in Gujarat nearly four decades ago.
Criticizing LDF-UDF Governance
Characterizing the civic poll result as a clear mandate for change, Prime Minister Modi claimed the victory reflects public determination to liberate Kerala from what he described as years of misgovernance by both the Left Democratic Front and United Democratic Front. He alleged that both political formations had systematically neglected Thiruvananthapuram for decades, leaving the capital city deficient in basic amenities and critical infrastructure.
"The Left and the Congress have consistently failed to address the fundamental needs of our people," Modi asserted. "However, our BJP team has already initiated work toward developing Thiruvananthapuram into a model city. To the residents of this historic city, I say—maintain your faith, for the long-overdue transformation is finally approaching."
The Prime Minister made a significant commitment regarding the city's future development, stating: "Thiruvananthapuram will become a model city for the entire nation. I extend my complete support to transform Thiruvananthapuram into one of India's premier urban centers."
Kerala's Political Landscape and Development Agenda
PM Modi addressed Kerala's broader political scenario as the state prepares for upcoming assembly elections. He observed that when considering Kerala's future, the political landscape has traditionally been divided between just two predominant sides—the LDF and UDF.
"Over successive years, both groups have alternated in governing the state, contributing significantly to Kerala's current developmental challenges," the Prime Minister remarked. "However, there exists a third alternative—one that prioritizes genuine development and effective governance—represented by the BJP and National Democratic Alliance."
Strong Commitment on Sabarimala Gold Theft Case
In a significant declaration, Prime Minister Modi addressed the sensitive Sabarimala gold theft case, promising decisive action should the BJP form government in Kerala. He stated unequivocally that a BJP administration would ensure those responsible for the gold theft face imprisonment, framing this commitment as "Modi's guarantee" to the people of Kerala.
"If the BJP forms government in Kerala, the Sabarimala gold loss will be thoroughly examined, and the culprits will be jailed—this is Modi's guarantee," the Prime Minister declared emphatically during his address.
Development Projects and Infrastructure Initiatives
Prime Minister Modi's visit to Kerala included the inauguration of multiple development projects and the flagging off of new train services. He emphasized that these initiatives mark a new momentum in Kerala's development trajectory, driven substantially by the central government's efforts.
The Prime Minister flagged off three Amrit Bharat Express trains along with a Thrissur-Guruvayur passenger train, significantly enhancing regional rail connectivity between Kerala and neighboring states including Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh.
Key development initiatives launched during the visit included:
- Foundation stone laying for a CSIR-NIIST Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship Hub in Thiruvananthapuram
- Launch of the PM SVANidhi Credit Card—a UPI-linked, interest-free revolving credit facility
- Disbursement of loan amounts and credit cards to multiple beneficiaries under the PM SVANidhi scheme
- Foundation stone laying for a state-of-the-art Radiosurgery Centre at Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology
- Inauguration of the new Poojappura Head Post Office in Thiruvananthapuram
PM Modi emphasized that these rail connectivity enhancements and development projects will collectively transform Thiruvananthapuram into a major national hub. He highlighted that the PM SVANidhi scheme specifically targets the welfare of economically disadvantaged sections across Kerala and the entire nation.
The Prime Minister concluded by noting that a new awareness has emerged among Kerala's populace regarding the central government's substantial efforts toward the coastal state's comprehensive development, setting the stage for significant political changes in the upcoming elections.
