VR Ramakrishnan, a past CPI(M) leader from Attapadi in Palakkad district who recently ran as an independent candidate in the local body elections, and Reji Lukose, a Left backer who represents the LDF in TV discussions, officially joined the BJP on Thursday (January 8).
Lukose received his party membership and was welcomed by BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar.
After aligning with the saffron party, Lukose, who has supported the Left for over 35 years, expressed his disappointment with the CPI(M)’s recent attempts to foster “a communal divide in the state”.
He further stated that he was impressed by the developmental politics promoted by the BJP.
“Thus, I have severed all connections with the CPI(M). Moving forward, my efforts will focus on ensuring the BJP achieves victory in Kerala,” he remarked.
Ramakrishnan noted that until four years ago, he was a dedicated party member and even aided the party financially.
“Yet, I still do not understand the reason for my removal from the party,” he stated.
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He also mentioned that when he initially joined the party, there was no allegation of communists being thieves, “but that narrative has changed”.
In light of Lukose’s shift to the BJP, state Ports Minister VN Vasavan remarked that many individuals alter their political affiliations under the impression that “the grass is greener on the other side”.
He acknowledged that within a democratic framework, anyone is free to support any party, and Lukose is entitled to that same freedom.
“However, he will need to address many of the statements he has previously made,” the minister indicated, referring to Lukose’s past comments regarding the BJP.
Vasavan, a senior CPI(M) figure, asserted that such changes in loyalties would not impact the Left front, which continues to move forward with its activities in preparation for the upcoming assembly elections.
