BJP Condemns Kerala Political Fronts for Sabarimala Policy Reversal
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) launched a sharp critique on Tuesday against the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) government and the opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) in Kerala over their apparent "U-turn" regarding the contentious Sabarimala women's entry issue. The saffron party expressed that while it is "happy" with their current position, it demands a clear explanation for the sudden shift in stance.
Historical Context and Changing Positions
Both the LDF and UDF had initially welcomed the Supreme Court's landmark 2018 verdict, which permitted women of all ages to enter the sacred Sabarimala temple. However, in a significant policy reversal, both political fronts have now softened their earlier positions, drawing criticism from the BJP.
Rajeev Chandrasekhar, the state BJP chief, emphasized during a press conference that "BJP is the only political party which has taken a consistent stand to protect the faith of Sabarimala devotees." He highlighted the party's unwavering commitment to the traditional beliefs surrounding the Lord Ayyappa temple.
Allegations and Demands
Chandrasekhar made serious allegations against the state government, claiming it had filed over 3,000 cases against individuals who protested the entry of young women into Sabarimala. He urgently called for authorities to withdraw these cases immediately, stating that the Left government still has an opportunity to "correct its mistake" by dismissing charges against Ayyappa devotees.
The BJP leader pointed out the marked contrast in the Left government's approach. Previously, the administration had not only supported the 2018 Supreme Court verdict but also provided police protection for women entering the temple. Now, under Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's leadership, the government has been actively engaging with Hindu organizations and, through the Travancore Devaswom Board, organized the Global Ayyappa Sangamam in 2025 to promote Sabarimala as a global pilgrimage center.
Political Timing and Electoral Implications
This development comes at a crucial juncture as the Supreme Court prepares to hear the matter again, and Kerala is set to go to polls in a single phase on April 9, with vote counting scheduled for May 4. Chandrasekhar urged the people of Kerala to remember the earlier positions taken by both the LDF and UDF on women's entry into Sabarimala as the legal proceedings unfold.
Despite acknowledging the shift, the BJP leader reiterated his "happiness" with the changed stance but insisted that both political fronts must transparently explain the reasons behind their reversal. This issue remains a significant point of contention in Kerala's political landscape, intertwining religious faith, legal judgments, and electoral strategies.
