Nair Service Society Withdraws from Proposed Hindu Unity Front in Kerala
The Nair Service Society (NSS) has decided to withdraw from a proposed Hindu unity front with the SNDP Yogam, citing political motives and impracticality. This move deals a significant setback to the initiative advocated by backward Ezhava community leader Vellappally Natesan, who recently received a Padma award from the Union government.
NSS Cites Doubts Over Political Intentions
After a meeting of its director board, NSS general secretary G Sukumaran Nair stated in a release that the organization has decided against forming a 'Hindu unity' front with the SNDP. "The unity is not practical. NSS-SNDP Yogam unity had failed to take off several times in the past. The present political atmosphere indicates that the latest unity move will fail," he explained.
Sukumaran Nair further elaborated to the media, "We have doubts about their approach. They (SNDP Yogam) have deputed an NDA leader to hold discussions with us." This reference points to Thushar Vellappally, Natesan's son and president of the Bharath Dharma Jana Sena, an ally of the BJP in Kerala, who was tasked with discussions.
Background of the Unity Proposal
The SNDP Yogam general council adopted a resolution backing the Hindu unity plan on January 21, with Natesan envisioning a broader unity that could include Christians. This was politically construed as mobilizing the Hindu majority against Muslims in Kerala. The Ezhava community, led by Natesan, constitutes around 27% of the state's population, while the Nair community accounts for approximately 14%.
A unity between the NSS and SNDP Yogam was seen as politically significant, especially ahead of Assembly elections. Both Natesan and Sukumaran Nair share opposition to Congress leader V D Satheesan, who has criticized Natesan's divisive politics targeting Muslims.
Political Implications and Community Dynamics
The withdrawal has notable political ramifications. While Natesan backs the CPI(M), his son Thushar's affiliation with the BJP adds complexity to the move. Traditionally, the Ezhava community has been pro-CPI(M), and the NSS has leaned pro-Congress, but both face pressure from the BJP's efforts to expand its Hindu vote base.
The CPI(M)-led front viewed the Hindu unity call as an attempt to consolidate Hindu support, unsettling the UDF camp. Sukumaran Nair emphasized that the NSS maintains an equidistant stand towards all political parties and seeks harmony with all communities, including the SNDP.
Conclusion: A Setback for Communal Mobilization
This development highlights the challenges in forging Hindu unity in Kerala's diverse socio-political landscape. The NSS's withdrawal underscores practical and ideological hurdles, casting doubt on the feasibility of such alliances amid ongoing political maneuvering. As elections loom, this decision may reshape coalition dynamics and community alignments in the state.
