Ezhava Community Leader Warns of Muslim League Dominance if UDF Wins Kerala
Vellappally Natesan, the general secretary of the Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam, made a strong statement on Saturday. He claimed that the Indian Union Muslim League would effectively rule Kerala if the Congress-led UDF alliance wins the upcoming Assembly election.
The prominent Ezhava community leader intensified his criticism of the UDF. He also called for a broader alliance between Hindu and Christian communities in the state.
Political Tensions Escalate Over Communal Remarks
Natesan has recently faced backlash for his alleged anti-Muslim comments. His latest remarks come just one day after senior Congress leader V D Satheesan criticized Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
Satheesan had questioned why Vijayan gave Natesan a ride in his official car during the Global Ayyappa Devotee Sangamam last September. Speaking at a Muslim cleric's event, Satheesan emphasized the need to keep "hate mongers" away from political discourse.
"Those who make hate speeches should not be encouraged," Satheesan stated. "Caution should be exercised when we give lift to others in our cars."
Natesan Fires Back at Congress Criticism
Natesan, known for his pro-CPI(M) stance, responded strongly to Satheesan's comments. He accused the Congress leader of being anti-Ezhava and supporting communalism.
"Satheesan's problem is that I, a person from the backward community, had got into the car of the Chief Minister who also belongs to the backward community," Natesan told media. "His tactical line is aimed at the chair of the Chief Minister."
Call for Hindu-Christian Unity Against Communal Division
The Ezhava leader emphasized the peaceful record of the current LDF government. He noted that Kerala has not witnessed any communal riots during the last ten years of LDF rule.
"The slogan of Hindu unity is gone now," Natesan declared. "It is time that Hindus, irrespective of their caste, and Christians stand together."
He specifically mentioned his organization's willingness to work harmoniously with the Nair Service Society. While acknowledging past differences over reservation quotas, Natesan blamed the UDF for damaging unity between NSS and SNDP Yogam.
NSS Responds Cautiously to Unity Proposal
NSS general secretary G Sukumaran Nair welcomed Natesan's gesture toward unity. However, he stopped short of making any firm commitments.
"We are ready for a discussion with Natesan," Nair stated. He also criticized Satheesan's continued attacks on the Ezhava leader regarding the car ride incident.
The political landscape in Kerala remains charged as election season approaches. Community leaders are making strategic moves that could reshape traditional alliances.
